Cinnamon, Cinnamomum verum, is a spicy aromatic herb used in traditional Chinese medicine as a warming stimulant. It is useful as a digestive and circulatory stimulant. Modern research has shown that cinnamon increases the capability of beta cells in the pancreas to produce insulin, reducing blood glucose levels in diabetics. Cinnamon also has astringent properties and can help control heavy menstrual flows and postpartum bleeding. Cinnamon is a strong antimicrobial and is helpful for certain types of dysbiosis. Cinnamon essential oil (Cassia variety) has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. Large amounts of cinnamon oil ingested internally can cause kidney damage or coma. Cinnamon oil and bark are not recommended during pregnancy except as a seasoning in food. It is a good idea to avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding. Taking more than 2 grams of cinnamon bark daily can cause gastrointestinal irritation. This can be taken as a tea, tincture, glycerite, capsule, powder, spirit, or essential oil.
