Naturally sweet cinnamon revives our senses with its wonderful aroma and can enhance health with its medicinal properties. Cinnamon was first used in China (2700 B.C.) to treat fever, digestive, and menstrual problems. Indian healers used cinnamon to treat gastrointestinal complaints, as well as sore throat and cough. Today, modern herbalists continue to use the herb for digestive issues, chest congestion and colds/flu, but they've also discovered it helps ease arthritis pain, as well as manage blood sugar levels.

Because cinnamon reduces the rate at which glucose enters the bloodstream, it seems to help prevent blood sugar spikes. It appears that cinnamon may work better in people whose diabetes is poorly managed as compared to those who have their blood sugar under control. More research is needed. As a medicinal supplement, different people respond to different amounts -- it's not just a matter of sprinkling a teaspoon on your oatmeal. Cinnamon may also change the way some medications work, so it's important to speak with your physician before adding cinnamon to your supplement regimen.

Cinnamon is available ground, in capsule form, and as a tea. There are many species of cinnamon. Be aware that typical grocery store cinnamon (‘cassia cinnamon' or 'Saigon cinnamon') contains coumarin, which, in high amounts, can be harmful to the liver. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) has much lower levels of coumarin, making it a better health choice. Looking for some natural input? Dr. Blandford offers a 15 minute Discovery Visit to help you learn about your naturopathic health options.

Resources

1. Examine.com:  Cinnamon Essential Benefits, Effects & Information. Accessed 2 Dec 2016: https://examine.com/supplements/cinnamon/
2. Hlebowicz, J., Darwiche, G., Björgell, O., & Almér, L. O. (2007). Effect of cinnamon on postprandial blood glucose, gastric emptying, and satiety in healthy subjects. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 85(6), 1552–1556. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/85.6.1552
3. Khan A., Safdar M., Ali Khan M., et al. (2023). 'Cinnamon improves glucose and lipids of people with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care 26(12) 3215-8. https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article-abstract/26/12/3215/21858/Cinnamon-Improves-Glucose-and-Lipids-of-People.
4. Leech, Joe. (2023). “Ceylon vs. Cassia — Not All Cinnamon Is Created Equal.” Healthline. Accessed 31 January 2026. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ceylon-vs-cassia-cinnamon.
5. Qin, B., Nagasaki, et al. (2004). “Cinnamon extract prevents the insulin resistance induced by a high-fructose diet.” Hormone and metabolic research = Hormon- und Stoffwechselforschung = Hormones et metabolisme, 36(2), 119–125. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2004-814223