Overview

Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) is a type of cinnamon that comes from the bark of an evergreen tree. Sri Lanka provides about 80% of the world's supply.

The oils found in Ceylon cinnamon are thought to reduce spasms, reduce gas, and fight bacteria and fungi. Chemicals in Ceylon cinnamon might also work like insulin to lower blood sugar. But these effects are thought to be fairly weak.

People use Ceylon cinnamon for diabetes, indigestion, diarrhea, obesity, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse Ceylon cinnamon with other types of cinnamon, including Cassia cinnamon, Padang cassia, Indian cassia, or Saigon cinnamon. These are not the same.



Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Ineffective for

  • Diabetes. Taking Ceylon cinnamon by mouth doesn't lower blood sugar in people with well-controlled diabetes. It might somewhat help people who have poorly controlled diabetes.
  • Obesity. Taking Ceylon cinnamon by mouth doesn't help with weight loss.

There is interest in using ceylon cinnamon for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Ceylon cinnamon is commonly consumed in foods. It is possibly safe when used as a medicine. It has been safely used in doses of 0.5-3 grams daily for up to 6 months. There isn't enough reliable information to know if Ceylon cinnamon is safe when taken in larger amounts or when used long-term.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Ceylon cinnamon is commonly consumed in foods. It is possibly safe when used as a medicine. It has been safely used in doses of 0.5-3 grams daily for up to 6 months. There isn't enough reliable information to know if Ceylon cinnamon is safe when taken in larger amounts or when used long-term.

Pregnancy: Ceylon cinnamon is commonly consumed in foods. But it is likely unsafe when taken in amounts greater than those found in foods during pregnancy. Stay on the safe side and stick to food amounts.

Breast-feeding: Ceylon cinnamon is commonly consumed in food. There isn't enough reliable information to know if it is safe to take in larger amounts while breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and stick to food amounts.

Surgery: Ceylon cinnamon might interfere with blood pressure and blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop taking cinnamon at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with Ceylon Cinnamon

    Ceylon cinnamon might lower blood sugar levels. Taking ceylon cinnamon along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.

  • Medications for high blood pressure (Antihypertensive drugs) interacts with Ceylon Cinnamon

    Ceylon cinnamon might lower blood pressure. Taking ceylon cinnamon along with medications that lower blood pressure might cause blood pressure to go too low. Monitor your blood pressure closely.

Dosing

Ceylon cinnamon has most often been used by adults in doses of 3 grams by mouth daily. It's also been used in nasal sprays and mouthwashes. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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