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Herbal Extract

Ceylon Cinnamon Bark Powder

Also known as: Cinnamomum verum, true cinnamon, Ceylon cinnamon, Cinnamomum zeylanicum

B
Evidence

Ceylon cinnamon is the bark powder of Cinnamomum verum, containing cinnamaldehyde and polyphenols with traditionally documented effects on glucose metabolism and inflammatory markers. It differs from cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) by having lower coumarin content.

Primary uses

  • Blood glucose management
  • Insulin sensitivity support
  • Antioxidant support
  • Anti-inflammatory effects
  • Cardiovascular health

How it works

  • Polyphenol-mediated antioxidant activity
  • Enhanced insulin receptor signaling
  • Reduced glycemic index of meals
  • Alpha-glucosidase inhibition
  • Modulation of inflammatory pathways (NF-κB)

Dosage

Typical range
1-6 grams daily (most studies use 1-2g daily)
Timing
With meals, particularly those high in carbohydrates
With food
Take with food; provides better glycemic benefit when consumed with meals
Duration
Minimal effects observed before 2-4 weeks. Most studies range 8-16 weeks; benefit sustained with continued use.
Special populations
Pregnancy/nursing: generally recognized as safe in culinary amounts; supplement use should be discussed with healthcare provider. Coumarin content much lower in Ceylon than Cassia cinnamon, making it safer for long-term supplementation.

Forms

  • powder· 70/100
  • capsule· 70/100
  • extract· 70/100
  • whole bark· 70/100

Safety

Common side effects

  • Mild gastrointestinal upset
  • Mouth irritation or inflammation (from powder)
  • Allergic reactions (rare)

Contraindications

  • Cinnamon allergy
  • Severe hepatic impairment (caution with higher doses due to coumarin)
  • Allergy to Cinnamomum species

Evidence notes

Multiple RCTs show modest improvements in fasting glucose and HbA1c in prediabetic and diabetic populations. Effect sizes range from 5-25% improvement. Meta-analyses support benefit at 1-6g daily. Evidence stronger for metabolic effects than for other traditionally claimed uses.

Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.