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Cinnamon Herb - Uses And Side Effects

What is cinnamon?

A popular spice used In cooking, cinnamon also Is found In small amounts In many toothpastes, mouthwashes, gargles, lotions, liniments, soaps, detergents, and other products. Active components come from the dried bark, leaves, and twigs of various species of Cinnamomum-Ceylon cinnamon (C. zeylandicum, Saigon cinnamon (C.lourerii, and others. C. zeylanlum grows in Sri Lanka, southeastern India, Indonesia, South America, and the West Indies. The essential oils are removed by steam-distilling the dried bark and leaves.

Common doses of cinnamon

Cinnamon comes as dried bark, dried leaves, powder, and cinnamon oil. Experts disagree on what dose to take.

Why people use cinnamon herb

• Abdominal pain
• Chest pain
• Common cold
• Diarrhea
• Fungal infection
• Gynecologic disorders
• High blood pressure
• Kidney problem
• Pain

Side effects of cinnamon

Call your health care practitioner if you experience any of these possible side effects of cinnamon:

• allergic reactions, including skin irritation, second degree burns, fast breathing, increased perspiration, and unusual excitement followed by drowsiness.
• facial flushing
• gingivitis (gum inflammation)
• inflamed, cracked lips
• inflammation in or around the mouth
• fast pulse
• shortness of breath
• tongue inflammation

Interactions

Important points to remember

• If you're pregnant or breast-feeding, don't use cinnamon in amounts greater than those normally found in foods.
• Be aware that cinnamon and its components can cause allergic reactions, such as skin irritation (including second-degree bums) and mucous membrane reactions.
• Know that some children use cinnamon products as recreational drugs.

What the research shows

Few studies have evaluated claims for cinnamon's proposed uses. More research must be done to determine whether it's safe and effective. In the meantime, medical experts caution against using cinnamon except as a spice.

Other names for cinnamon : -

Other names for cinnamon include Bataviacassia, Chinese cinnamon, Padang cassia, Panang cinnamon and Saigon cassia.

Various manufacturers produce cinnamon for use as a spice.

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