Cinnamon -- an aromatic spice with a sweet, distinctive flavor -- has been used since antiquity as a seasoning and an herbal medicine. Herbalists sometimes recommend cinnamon to promote healthy blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance in people with type two diabetes. Herbal medicine -- an alternative therapy -- is not intended to replace conventional medicinal treatment. Consult your physician before trying cinnamon for diabetes, and don't stop taking any prescribed medications for diabetes unless specifically instructed to.
Features
Cinnamon -- from the powdered bark of the tree botanically known as Cinnamomum verum -- is highly valued by herbalists in various medical systems, including Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda. Cinnamon has been traditionally employed to treat disorders such as diarrhea, rheumatism and menstrual cramps. Drugs.com credits cinnamon with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities, and reports that many of the spice's beneficial qualities come from its content of cinnamaldehyde, found in the essential oil. Results of clinical studies showing the effects of cinnamon on blood glucose have been mixed. However, in a placebo-controlled clinical study published in the December 2003 issue of "Diabetes Care," researchers found that between 1 and 6 g a day of cinnamon reduced serum glucose in patients with type two diabetes. Blue Shield Complementary and Alternative Health recommends 1/2 to 3/4 tsp. of the powder per day.
Allergic Reaction
One possible dangerous consequence of using cinnamon is the risk of allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. BSCAH states that bronchial constriction and rash have been reported after exposure to cinnamon. An allergy to cinnamon could also cause hives, dizziness, and swelling of the throat, lips and eyelids; in rare cases, a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis can occur. If you have symptoms of anaphylaxis -- such as wheezing or the sense your throat is closing -- after using cinnamon, call 911. BSCAH adds that mouth inflammation can occur with long-term use of cinnamon.
Coumarin
HealthMad notes that cassia cinnamon, a common variety sold in the United States, can contain high levels of coumarin, which acts as a blood-thinner and can damage the liver. The website suggests buying Ceylon cinnamon for its low levels of coumarin. Consult your doctor before using cinnamon, and don't use it if you're pregnant or breast feeding
Noncompliance
A possible danger of using cinnamon -- or any other herbal remedy -- to treat diabetes could arise if a patient already under a doctor's care places faith in the cinnamon to such an extent that he views insulin as unnecessary. Untreated diabetes could result in hyperglycemia, or excessively high blood sugar levels; this in turn can cause a life-threatening condition called ketoacidosis, or diabetic coma. Symptoms of ketoacidosis include shortness of breath, fruity-smelling breath, nausea and vomiting, and dry mouth. Seek emergency medical care if you have symptoms of ketoacidosis.
