{"id":54842,"date":"2024-10-11T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-10-11T17:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/foodrevolution.org\/?p=54842"},"modified":"2026-09-15T00:39:23","modified_gmt":"2026-09-15T07:39:23","slug":"is-cinnamon-healthy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/foodrevolution.org\/blog\/is-cinnamon-healthy\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Cinnamon Healthy? Benefits, Types, and Risks"},"content":{"rendered":"

Ancient Egyptians used cinnamon as part of their mummification<\/a> process, thanks to its natural preservative properties. Romans deployed it to cover the odor of rotting meat (which I guess is kind of the same thing). Upper classes around the world prized the spice for its sharp scent and exotic taste \u2014 paying as much as a year\u2019s wages<\/a> for a single pound, according to Roman writer Pliny the Elder (I wonder if they called him that when he was little \u2014 that would be weird!).<\/p>\n

These days, cinnamon is still beloved. Cooks use it to add a touch of flavor to everything from baked goods to oatmeal to savory dishes.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s also often associated with the holidays (pumpkin spice, anyone?), but, of course, cinnamon spice is available year-round, too.<\/p>\n

Cinnamon is valued for its yummy taste and comforting aroma, but it\u2019s been used medicinally<\/a> for millennia, especially for respiratory and digestive ailments.<\/strong> And in modern times, it\u2019s also often used for blood sugar management.<\/p>\n

However, there are concerns about certain compounds, particularly lead and coumarin, that are found in some types of cinnamon and are toxic in high doses. But as you\u2019ll soon see, if you get Ceylon cinnamon, you\u2019ll have no worries about coumarin, as the amount of coumarin in Ceylon cinnamon is vanishingly small and often nonexistent. For this reason, as you\u2019ll see, we recommend Ceylon cinnamon.<\/p>\n

So, should you eat cinnamon or add it to food and drinks? And if so, are there particular types that are safest?<\/p>\n

In this article, we dive deep into the world of cinnamon. We\u2019ll explore its origins, best types, nutritional profile, and impressive health benefits. We\u2019ll also look at potential downsides, see what the science says about those \u201cdangerous\u201d compounds, and explore how to source lead-free cinnamon. (I can picture the packaging now: \u201cGluten-free! Fat-free! Lead-free.\u201d)<\/p>\n

We\u2019ll also share practical tips for incorporating cinnamon into your life and some delicious recipes to help you make the most of this flavorful and versatile spice.<\/p>\n

What Is Cinnamon?<\/h2>\n
\"Cinnamon
iStock.com\/adomer<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of tree species belonging to the genus Cinnamomum<\/a>. Most commonly available ground into a powder, it\u2019s also sold in sticks<\/a> and pieces. You can also use the plant leaves to make cinnamon tea or flavor savory dishes in place of the more common bay leaves.<\/p>\n

There are two main types of cinnamon used in cooking:<\/p>\n