Cinnamon is a commonly used spice ingredient obtained from the inner bark of many trees that belong to the 'Cinnamomum' family. It is mainly used as a flavoring and aromatic agent in many cuisines and a variety of dishes such as sweets, savories, snacks, teas, breakfast cereals, etc. In addition to spicing up your dish with taste and aroma, cinnamon also provides several health benefits. Studies have proven that cinnamon has anti inflammatory, antidiabetic, and immune boosting properties. 

Read further to know more about the amazing benefits of cinnamon.

  • Cinnamon is rich in potent antioxidants (example polyphenols) that fight with free radicals and protect cellular damage in your body
  • Cinnamon has an active component called ‘cinnamaldehyde’ that has potent antibacterial properties. Thus, cinnamon helps fight against several bacterial and fungal infections
  • Cinnamon is effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases by helping reduce the ‘bad’ cholesterol levels, preserving the ‘good’ cholesterols and controlling high blood pressure 
  • Cinnamon helps reduce inflammation, by the virtue of its anti inflammatory properties and help reduce risk factors for several diseases
  • Cinnamon has a dual action on diabetes control. First, it increases your body’s insulin resistance and second it lowers blood sugar levels 
  • Cinnamon boosts your metabolism by activating the enzymes that improve your digestion and absorption
  • Cinnamon has chemical compounds that inhibit the production of a protein called ‘tau’ in the brain, and prevent some of the neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease
  • Cinnamon is believed to have anti-cancer properties and properties to fight HIV (on-going studies)

What happens if you consume too much cinnamon?

Cinnamon contains a chemical compound called ‘coumarin’. Coumarin may cause various health problems if cinnamon is consumed in excess. Listed below are a few noted health problems caused due to overconsumption of cinnamon:

  • Liver damage (due to the effect of coumarin)
  • Increased risk of cancer (due to the effect of coumarin)
  • Mouth ulcers and sores (due to the effect of cinnamaldehyde)
  • Trigger respiratory allergies and breathing problems (due to the effect of cinnamaldehyde)
  • Lung inflammation upon inhalation of dry cinnamon (due to the effect of cinnamaldehyde)
  • Decreased blood sugar than the desired levels
  • Interfere with certain medications

Take Home Message: Although cinnamon is one of the most flavorful spices with amazing health benefits, overconsumption of cinnamon should be avoided as it may trigger adverse health effects.

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