Arteries supply oxygenated and nutrient-rich blood to different parts of the body. However, an excessive amount of cholesterol, calcium and other substances lead to the formation of plaques that harden and block the arteries, restricting the flow of blood. That increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, says the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The role of herbs such as cinnamon in preventing plaque formation is unclear, so talk to your doctor before using them.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is the brown bark of the Cinnamomum verum plant that has been used as a spice and a flavoring agent for centuries. It may also help treat diabetes, gastric ulcers, inflammation and arthritis, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Volatile oils such as cinammaldehyde and phenolic compounds such as tanins and proanthcyanidins are responsible for the medicinal value of cinnamon supplements. Your doctor may help establish a regimen, based on your age and health history.
Clearing the Plaque
Cinnamon extracts influence lipid metabolism and significantly lower lipid levels in the blood and livers of laboratory animals, according to a study in the February 2010 issue of the “Archives of Pharmacal Research.” That may prevent or reduce the risk of plaque formation in the arteries and keep them clear. Another study in a 2010 issue of the “Pakistan Journal of Nutrition” found that cinnamon may significantly lower blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
The Contention
Dr. Thomas Behrenbeck of the Mayo Clinic states that although large amounts of cinnamon may affect glucose and fat metabolism in the body and thereby lower blood cholesterol levels, there isn’t enough evidence to replace the existing prescription medications with the spice. Editors of the Rodale Health Books also point out in the book “Cholesterol Curves” that more research is needed to determine cinnamon's role in clearing arteries.
Side Effects
Cinnamon has been used in food for centuries and moderate amounts of the spice are considered safe for most individuals. Allergic reactions characterized by rash and skin hives may occur occasionally. Individuals taking diabetes medications and those with hormone-sensitive diseases should use cinnamon cautiously. It may also interfere with the action of certain blood-thinning medications.
Precautions
Although cinnamon and its supplements are easily available at most natural food stores, talk to a doctor before using them. The Food and Drug administration does not regulate the cinnamon supplements sold in United States. Check if the supplement you intend to use has been tested for safety and efficacy, or look for the USP logo that is awarded by the United States Pharmacopeial Convention to supplements that have been voluntarily submitted for safety tests.
References
- "Archives of Pharmacal Research"; Antihyperglycemic and Antihyperlipidemic Action of Cinnamomi Cassiae (Cinnamon Bark) Extract in C57BL/Ks Db/Db Mice; Sung Hee Kim, et al.; February 2010
- "Pakistan Journal of Nutrition"; Cinnamon May Reduce Glucose, Lipid and Cholesterol Level in Type 2 Diabetic Individuals; Radhia Khan, et al.; 2010
- Mayo Clinic: Does cinnamon lower cholesterol levels?
- "Cholesterol Cures"; Editors of Rodale Health Books; 2007
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Cinnamon
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: What Is Coronary Heart Disease?
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