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Cinnamon

Also called: Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), cassia (Cinnamomum cassia)

A common kitchen spice studied for blood sugar after meals. Cassia, the most common type, contains coumarin, which can harm the liver in large amounts.

Medical Disclaimer

Supplements can interact with medications and aren't right for everyone, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with a chronic condition. Ask your provider before you start.

Studied for

  • Blood sugar (small effects in some studies)
  • Insulin resistance and PCOS (as part of a broader plan)
  • Flavoring foods in place of sugar

Found naturally in

  • Ground cinnamon and cinnamon sticks (most grocery-store cinnamon in the U.S. is cassia)
  • Ceylon cinnamon, sold as 'true cinnamon'
What variations of cinnamon exist?Our top pick, what to skip, and how to read the label

Label red flags

  • Doesn't say which type (Ceylon or cassia)
  • Large amounts of cassia powder with no mention of coumarin

Check with a provider

  • Liver disease, or taking medicines that can affect the liver. Cassia's coumarin can harm the liver in large amounts.
  • Taking diabetes medicine (risk of low blood sugar)
  • Taking blood thinners. Ask your provider first.
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding: food amounts are fine, but ask before taking supplements
  • Allergy to cinnamon, which can cause mouth sores or a rash

Supplements that contain it

One product in the Lesher Wellness store lists cinnamon on the label.

Parts of the body it affects

Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.

Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0

Dr. Lesher, ND

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Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.

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