Cinnamon Supplement

Bark of the cinnamon tree has a long and rich history of being used as a spice and a medicine. Cinnamon tree is an evergreen tree of the family, Lauraceae. The dried brown bark of this tree is sold in the form of quills or as ground powder in the market. The actual or true cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, which is quite expensive. The less expensive cinnamon that can be more commonly found in the market comes from a related tree, known as cassia cinnamon. It is also called 'Chinese cinnamon' or 'Indonesian cinnamon'. True or Ceylon cinnamon has a sweet taste, and the quills are softer and lighter in color than the cassia cinnamon. Both its varieties have been used for a long time as remedies for various ailments. Several studies and researches have been carried out in this direction, which have popularized its medicinal properties. Today, various supplements of this spice can be found in the market, which are nowadays used by many people.

Cinnamon Benefits

The medicinal properties of this spice have been known to mankind since the ancient times. But still, it is mainly used in cooking, as a condiment and as a flavoring agent. However, the results of some scientific studies have generated a growing interest in its use for therapeutic purposes. The following are some of the conditions in which cinnamon can be used as an herbal remedy.

• It is found to have anti-clotting properties. Blood clotting is important to prevent excessive bleeding in the case of injury. However, too much clumping of blood platelets can prove harmful, as it can adversely affect the circulation of blood. The 'cinnaldehyde' found in it can prevent unnecessary clumping of blood platelets.
• It has been the traditional remedy for digestive ailments like, upset stomach, flatulence, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
• It can boost the immune system. Usually, cinnamon powder is taken along with honey to strengthen the immune system.
• It has antimicrobial properties and it has been found to prevent the growth of bacteria and the fungus like, 'candida'. It has been observed that its extract can help to treat yeast infection.
• People with diabetes can also benefit from it. Several studies in this regard have pointed out that it may help to regulate blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity. This can be attributed to presence of the chemical, 'hydroxychalcone'.
• In the traditional Chinese medicine, it is the warming tonic that can alleviate common cold and cough.
• Many people use it for weight loss. Usually, honey and cinnamon are boiled together in a cup of water and then taken in the morning in an empty stomach to lose excess weight, and prevent the accumulation of fats in the body.
• In addition to these, it can aid in lowering the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body, reducing the pain of arthritis when applied topically and alleviate toothaches. Women suffering from painful menstruation and menopause symptoms can also find it helpful.
• It is also a good source of fiber and minerals like iron, calcium and manganese.

Cinnamon Side Effects

The side effects are mainly experienced by those, who use it excessively. Cinnamon, especially the cassia cinnamon contains a compound known as 'coumarin', which is toxic in high concentration. Ceylon or true cinnamon contains negligible amounts of 'coumarin'. But, it is the cassia cinnamon that is more commonly found in the market as a spice and also included in many supplements. Cassia cinnamon is known to contain comparatively high amounts of 'coumarin' than true cinnamon. High level of coumarin can damage the liver and the kidney, for which excessive intake of cinnamon should be strictly avoided. It also has blood thinning effects, for which it should not be taken along with anti-clotting medications like, warfarin. Even people having bleeding disorders should talk to their physician before taking cinnamon and its supplements for therapeutic purpose.

People taking diabetes medications should also take the permission of their physicians before taking it. This is because, it can lower blood sugar and the combined effect of both cinnamon and diabetes medications can result in a significant drop in blood sugar. On the other hand, pregnant and breastfeeding women should stay away from taking it to treat any kind of health problems. People with kidney diseases should also not take it without the approval of their physicians. Some other side effects include, skin irritation or contact dermatitis, which is experienced when it is applied topically.

To sum up, its supplements need to be taken with caution. It is also important to avoid the cheap supplements, in order to avoid any kind of serious side effects. In general, it is always safe to purchase any kind of supplementation from a reputed manufacturer. Lastly, do not forget to consult your physician before taking any dietary and herbal supplements including, the supplements of cinnamon.