There are many health benefits of cinnamon, from reducing inflammation to treating bacterial and fungal infections. However, this herbal plant also has side effects. To make it safer to consume cinnamon, let's get to know what are the benefits and side effects.
Cinnamon is a delicious spice and has a distinctive aroma. Besides being commonly used as a cooking spice, cinnamon can also be processed into essential oils and traditional medicines to treat various diseases and health problems.
Various Benefits of Cinnamon for Health
Cinnamon contains protein, fiber, calcium, iron, potassium, selenium, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin K, as well as substances that have antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Thanks to these ingredients, it's no wonder that cinnamon is claimed to have many health benefits. Here are some of them:
1. Reduce inflammation and pain
The antioxidant content of polyphenols and flavonoids in cinnamon makes it good for consumption to overcome inflammation, accelerate wound recovery, and prevent cell and tissue damage from free radicals.
Meanwhile, the anti-pain effect produced by cinnamon can be used to treat pain complaints in patients with headaches, toothaches, joint pain, and muscle aches.
2. Lowering blood sugar levels
Several studies have shown that cinnamon extract can lower blood sugar levels and keep them stable. In addition, cinnamon is known to improve the performance and effectiveness of the hormone insulin in patients with diabetes mellitus dipe 2, as well as prevent the occurrence of diabetes and insulin resistance in healthy people.
3. Maintain heart health
Several studies have shown that cinnamon extract has the potential to reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, which are types of bad fats that can cause blockage of blood vessels (atherosclerosis).
These benefits make cinnamon a good herbal plant to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as stroke and heart disease.
4. Control blood pressure
This is also one of the benefits of cinnamon that is a pity to miss. Cinnamon is high in potassium and antioxidants, so it is good for controlling blood pressure and preventing hypertension.
However, to maximize the benefits of cinnamon on this one, you also need to live a healthy lifestyle, namely regular exercise, not smoking, eating a balanced nutritious diet, and limiting salt intake.
5. Fights fungal and bacterial infections
Active substance Cinnamaldehyde Cinnamon is believed to be able to help fight various types of infections, such as fungal infections that cause respiratory problems and bacterial infections that cause tooth decay and bad breath.
In addition to the above benefits, cinnamon is also believed to prevent dementia and Alzheimer's disease, help fight the HIV virus, and inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
However, the effectiveness of cinnamon as a natural medicine still needs to be studied further. You are also not recommended to consume cinnamon in excess, considering that this plant contains coumarin substances which can turn harmful to health if consumed in high amounts.
These side effects include:
- Irritation or sores on the mouth and lips
- Decreased blood sugar levels are too drastic or hypoglycemia
- Respiratory problems, especially in people who have a history of asthma
- Damage or impaired liver function
- Stomach ache
- Digestive disorders, such as vomiting and diarrhea
To be safer, it's a good idea to know the safe dose of cinnamon for daily consumption, namely:
- kind sweet Cassia: 0.5–4 grams or equivalent to 1 teaspoon
- Cinnamon type Ceyon: 5 grams or the equivalent of 2.5 teaspoons
This is because of the coumarin content in cinnamon Cassia higher than cinnamon type Ceyon.
You should also not take cinnamon, either in the form of herbs or supplements, along with medications to avoid drug interactions.
If you want to get the benefits of cinnamon as a treatment for certain diseases, you should consult a doctor first. This is important to ensure the safety and effectiveness of cinnamon consumption against your condition.