Updated: 12/5/23
Cinnamon bark is a tasty and versatile ingredient that can liven up any dish, sweet or savory. But did you know that its pungent flavor also packs plenty of health benefits? From regulating blood sugar to fighting infection, cinnamon bark has been used in traditional medicines for centuries because of its beneficial properties. Read on to find out how this common pantry staple can help take your health to the next level – naturally!
What is Cinnamon Bark Extract?
Cinnamon bark extract comes from the bark of the cinnamon tree, a small tree that is native to Sri Lanka and India. It has been a popular natural remedy for thousands of years. It is even believed to have been used as a form of currency at one time because of its value. The extract is made by soaking the bark in alcohol or water to extract the beneficial compounds inside. There are two main types of cinnamon: Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is known as “true” cinnamon and is harder to find compared to cassia cinnamon, which is cheaper and more widely available.
It is easy to incorporate into your diet. You can add it to smoothies, coffee, tea, or even sprinkle it over your oatmeal or yogurt. You can also take it in supplement form, although it’s always recommended to consult your doctor before starting any new supplements.
Cinnamon Bark Production
Cinnamon Bark is obtained from Cinnamon trees, native to Southeast Asia and grown in the Caribbean, South America, and other tropical regions. Farmers harvest the bark from the tree and transform it into the spice we all love. The best time to harvest cinnamon bark is in the rainy season, which lasts from May to August. During the rainy season, the cinnamon tree is full of sap, and the bark peels off easily, making it easier to remove the outer bark without damaging the tree.
After harvest, the farmers carefully remove the outer bark from the cinnamon tree and then shave the inner bark in thin sheets. The sheets are then left to dry in the sun for several days. Once dry, the farmers roll the sheets into long cinnamon sticks, or quills, that can be ground into cinnamon powder. These quills can be broken down into smaller pieces and packaged to be sold.
The bark production requires a lot of physical labor and attention to detail to ensure top-quality cinnamon. Family-owned businesses often handle the production process, which typically runs from planting the cinnamon tree to packaging the final product. Because of the many families involved in the production of the bark, purchasing quality cinnamon directly supports farmers and communities in tropical regions.
Is Cinnamon Bark the Same as Cinnamon?
No, they’re not the same thing, but they’re both types of cinnamon. Cinnamon bark is used less frequently than cinnamon powder, and it’s known for its medicinal properties. In contrast, cinnamon powder is a common spice used in baking, cooking, and as a topping for oatmeal and lattes.
Cinnamon Bark Extract Benefits
Whether you are taking cinnamon bark extract as a supplement or if you are consuming it as a powder or tea, then you are likely to receive a number of amazing and natural benefits.
Controls Blood Sugar Levels
It contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde that improves the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. This is great news, especially for people with diabetes, who need to keep their blood sugar levels in check.
Lowers Cholesterol
High cholesterol is a leading cause of heart disease. It has been shown to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. This means that it can protect your heart and improve your overall cardiovascular health.
Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is the underlying cause of many chronic diseases such as arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammation and prevent cell damage.
Boosts Brain Function
It can improve cognitive function by boosting brain activity and increasing alertness. It also helps in the formation of new neural pathways, which can improve memory and learning.
Fights Infections
It contains natural antimicrobial compounds that can fight against harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This means that it can help prevent infections and promote a healthy immune system.
Promotes Weight Loss
It can help you lose weight by reducing your appetite and increasing metabolism. It also lowers insulin resistance, which helps your body burn fat more efficiently.
Improves Digestion
It has been used for centuries as a digestive aid. It can stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and help combat common digestive problems like bloating, gas, and constipation.
Supports Dental Health
It can help fight against oral bacteria that cause bad breath and tooth decay. It also helps in reducing inflammation and soothes gum irritation.
Cinnamon Bark Side Effects
Gastrointestinal Issues
One of the most commonly reported side effects of it is gastrointestinal issues. These can range from stomach discomfort to diarrhea. This is because cinnamon contains a compound called coumarin, which can be harmful if consumed in high doses. If you experience any gastrointestinal issues after taking it, it’s best to lower your dosage or discontinue use altogether.
Liver Damage
There are some studies that suggest high doses of cinnamon bark extract may cause liver damage. It’s important to note that these studies were conducted with very high dosages of the extract, and there’s no evidence to suggest that taking moderate dosages that is harmful to your liver. However, if you have any underlying liver conditions, it’s best to speak with your doctor before adding it to your health routine.
Blood Sugar Lowering Effects
It is known for its ability to lower blood sugar levels. While this is great news for individuals with diabetes, it can be problematic for others. If you already have low blood sugar levels, taking cinnamon bark extract may further lower your levels and cause hypoglycemia. Monitor your blood sugar levels carefully when taking the extract.
Blood Thinning
It is known to have blood-thinning properties, which can be both a benefit and a potential side effect. While it can help prevent blood clots and lower the risk of heart disease, it can also increase the risk of bleeding. If you are taking blood-thinning medications or have a bleeding disorder, it is recommended to speak with your healthcare provider before taking it.
Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may be allergic to cinnamon or the extract. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking the extract immediately and seek medical attention.
Skin Irritation
Lastly, some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when using cinnamon bark extract topically. It’s important to do a patch test before using any new topical product, and to discontinue use if you experience any negative effects.
Is Cinnamon Bark Safe During Pregnancy?
While cinnamon bark is generally safe during pregnancy, it’s important to consult with your physician if you have any underlying health conditions before consuming it. Additionally, cinnamon bark can increase the risk of miscarriage if consumed in large amounts. Pregnant women should avoid consuming pure cinnamon supplements and instead opt for small amounts of cinnamon in their meals or drinks.
Cinnamon can be in use safely in moderation during pregnancy, but it’s important to be cautious. Avoid consuming excessive amounts of bark in any form, and opt for Ceylon cinnamon wherever possible. If you’re still unsure about whether or not cinnamon bark is safe during pregnancy, talk to your doctor or a qualified health professional for further guidance.
Does Cinnamon Bark Interact with Warfarin?
According to studies, consuming large amounts of cinnamon may increase the effects of warfarin, which could lead to an increased risk of bleeding. This is because cinnamon contains coumarin, which is a natural blood thinner. Therefore, it is important to limit your intake of cinnamon when taking warfarin to avoid any potential interactions.
Can You Smoke Cinnamon Bark?
Research has revealed that cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, a compound that can cause irritation in the lungs, throat, and nose. This indicates that cinnamon bark can be a potential health hazard, especially if you have respiratory issues such as asthma or any other lung-related problem. So, before you begin smoking the bark, it is imperative to consider the risks and your health condition.
Smoking it does not provide any natural high or stimulation as opposed to marijuana or tobacco. Therefore, smoking the bark is only for those looking for a flavorful smoking option. However, If you are looking for a natural and safe smoking alternative, then cinnamon is not your thing.
Cinnamon Bark Extract Dosage
The recommended amount of any specific supplement will vary depending on age, weight, gender, current medical condition, currently prescribed medications and various other considerations. With all of that in mind, Bulk Supplements recommends in the amount ranging from ¼ – ½ teaspoon up to three times daily when supplementing in cinnamon bark extract powder form. However, cinnamon bark extract is also available in cinnamon bark extract capsule form. When consuming cinnamon bark in capsule form, the recommended dose is 1-2 capsules daily. It is best to take either form of with food and water.
Where to Buy Cinnamon Bark Extract
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The Bottom Line
Cinnamon bark is a basic part of many people’s diets and has been a reliable medicinal option for centuries. The ability that it has to reduce inflammation, impact appetite, assist in the treatment of diabetes and fighting infection is quite the feat for a food that can be found naturally in the bark of certain trees. Still, there are a number of important considerations when implementing the extract as a supplement in your diet. It is vital to not only consult a trusted health care professional, but to also understand proper dosage suggestions.
As you can see, the extract has health benefits that can improve your overall wellness. From controlling blood sugar levels to improving brain function and fighting viruses, it is a powerful supplement that can help you achieve your health goals. Add it to your daily routine and experience the benefits for yourself!
Cinnamon bark extract is a powerful supplement that can provide numerous health benefits. However, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects before adding it to your diet. If you experience any side effects, it is best to reduce your dose or discontinue use altogether. Additionally, if you have a medical condition or are taking medications, it is a recommendation to speak with your healthcare provider before taking it. By making informed decisions about your health, you can ensure that you are getting the most out of your supplements while avoiding any potential risks.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease