Your blood glucose levels are a measure of the amount of glucose, or sugar, in your bloodstream. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, blood glucose levels that stay above 180 mg/dL for prolonged periods are too high and can make you feel sick. Some of the most common signs of elevated blood sugar levels are fatigue, thirst, frequent urination and blurry vision. Cinnamon may be helpful in lowering your blood glucose levels, although you should speak to your doctor before using this herb medicinally.
High Blood Sugar
Prolonged periods of elevated blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, may increase your likelihood of developing serious health complications, including kidney disease, eye disease, stroke and heart attack. Possible causes of high blood glucose levels -- a particularly common problem among diabetics -- include consuming too much food, getting too little exercise, insufficient insulin and stress, infection, illness or surgery. Unexplained weight loss, slow wound healing and dry mouth are possible indications of hyperglycemia.
Plant Information
Cinnamon trees are indigenous to South East Asia. Cinnamon, the spice and the herbal remedy, comes from the inner bark of several trees from the genus Cinnamomum. The two principal types of cinnamon are called Ceylon cinnamon and Chinese cinnamon. The dried inner bark of the tree is rolled into a tube, which is called a quill or stick. This herbal remedy is also available as ground powder. Nutrients contained in cinnamon include calcium, copper, iodine and zinc as well as numerous vitamins.
Plant Actions
Cinnamon, when used medicinally, may perform numerous health actions within your body. According to naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," cinnamon helps stop your bleeding, tightens your tissues and is a gastrointestinal tonic. Cinnamon is perhaps best known, however, for its ability to lower your blood sugar levels and as a helpful supplement in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. You should not use large amounts of this herbal remedy if you are pregnant.
Additional information
Because unmanaged blood glucose levels may lead to numerous health problems, it is important to keep your blood glucose levels within a narrow range. Your doctor can counsel you on the safest and most effective strategies to achieve this health outcome. Before using herbal remedies, including cinnamon, to help control your blood glucose levels, review all risks, benefits, limitations and possible drug interactions with your primary care provider. Cinnamon, when used for this health purpose, may not be right for everyone.
References
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: When Your Blood Glucose Is Too High or Too Low
- Joslin Diabetes Center: What Is High Blood Glucose
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
