As noted above, cinnamon contains antioxidants that can help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. “These antioxidants may help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, supporting overall health and vitality,” says Talib. Cinnamon is also thought increase circulation and even lower cholesterol and blood pressure, reducing hypertension and thus the risk of heart disease. Finally, the bark boasts antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. “These properties can alter the microbiome and may show some [external] anti-inflammatory benefits,” says Dr. Courneene.
Any downsides?
Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, a phytochemical that is considered a carcinogen, and can also cause damage to the liver. “Chinese, Saigon, and Indonesian cinnamon can contain significant amounts of coumarin which is believed to have moderate hepatotoxic (liver toxicity) potential,” says Robinett. She adds, however, that a Japanese study of people who regularly took Kampo, a traditional herbal formula containing high levels of Cinnamomum cassia, “did not exhibit any signs of coumarin-induced liver damage.”
As always, chat with your health care provider when approaching a new ingredient for its medicinal properties, particularly before ingesting therapeutic or high doses (aka large amounts). And should you opt to apply cinnamon topically, do so with care. “Cinnamon can be very irritating due to the cannamalderhydres it contains,” says Dr. Courneene. “Due to its composition, it is never recommended to apply concentrated cinnamon oil directly to the skin—and it may increase photosensitivity when exposed to sunlight, creating a sunburn even with limited sun exposure.”
For the most part (and with some intentional thought) cinnamon is safe, simple, and easy to incorporate into your routine. Here’s how:
More Sweet Treats
If you’re anything like us, the first thing that comes to mind when the word “cinnamon” is mentioned is baked goods. And if that sort of sweet, sweet cinnamon consumption comes with some physical upsides, all the better. Stir your coffee with a cinnamon stick, sprinkle ground cinnamon over chia pudding or oatmeal, or simply bake more of your favorite cinnamon-focused desserts.
Add It Into Your Regular Diet
Should ramping up your dessert uptake sound like a no-go, there are of course other ways to eat your cinnamon. “Cinnamon is amazing in savory dishes,” says Robinett, who suggests adding the warming seasoning to baked squash, meats, and roasted vegetables. You also have the option of sipping cinnamon tea or taking cinnamon supplements.
Spice Up Your Wellness Routine
Cinnamon can be used to clear skin and minds alike. “Cinnamon can be used as an essential oil, which when properly diluted, possesses antimicrobial properties that can help with issues like acne and fungal infections,” says Singh. As noted above, said dilution is essential, as is spot testing. When used for aromatherapy—either in incense form or a diffused essential oil—the warming, spiced scent is thought to boost mood and ease anxiety.