A new study has revealed that your favorite kitchen spice might be secretly interfering with your prescription medications. Researchers have discovered that cinnamon-yes, that aromatic powder you sprinkle on your morning latte-could potentially affect how your body processes certain drugs.
The Surprising Discovery
Scientists at the University of Mississippi’s National Center for Natural Products Research recently examined cinnamaldehyde, the primary active ingredient in cinnamon. Their findings, published in the journal Food Chemistry: Molecular Sciences, showed that this compound is completely absorbed by the body whether you’ve eaten or not23.
What’s concerning is what happens next. Once absorbed, cinnamaldehyde rapidly transforms into cinnamon acid and activates multiple receptors that affect drug metabolism. This means that consuming too much cinnamon could potentially cause your body to clear prescription medications too quickly, reducing their effectiveness.
Who Should Be Concerned?
According to the researchers, people with certain chronic conditions should be especially cautious about cinnamon supplementation, including those with:
Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician interviewed by CNN, adds that anyone taking blood thinners or medications processed by the liver should also be careful2. This includes people with a history of heart disease or stroke.
Not All Cinnamon Is Created Equal
The study highlights important differences between cinnamon varieties. Cassia cinnamon, the most common type sold in North America, contains high levels of coumarin, a natural blood thinner. Ceylon cinnamon (often called “true” cinnamon) contains much less coumarin5.
“In contrast, true cinnamon from Sri Lanka carries a lower risk due to its reduced coumarin content,” explains Amar Chittiboyina, associate director of the research center. “Coumarin’s anticoagulant properties can be hazardous for individuals on blood thinners.”
Should You Toss Your Cinnamon?
Before you panic and clear your spice rack, the researchers emphasize that normal culinary use of cinnamon is unlikely to cause problems2. A sprinkle on your coffee or oatmeal isn’t going to suddenly make your medications ineffective.
The real concern is with concentrated cinnamon supplements taken regularly over time2. The global cinnamon market is expected to expand by $412.9 million from 2024 to 2028, partly due to its growing use in health supplements.
The Bottom Line
If you’re considering cinnamon supplements, talk to your doctor first-especially if you have chronic health conditions or take prescription medications5. Remember that dietary supplements aren’t regulated like prescription drugs. The FDA doesn’t review supplements before they hit the market or verify their effectiveness.
As Shabana Khan, a principal scientist involved in the study, puts it: “By definition, supplements are not meant to treat, cure or mitigate any disease.”
So go ahead and enjoy that cinnamon roll-just think twice before adding daily cinnamon capsules to your health routine.
