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Cinnamon Concerns: Kitchen Spice May Interfere with Medications
Scientists are raising concerns about a common kitchen spice, cautioning that it might impact the effectiveness of prescription drugs. While using a small amount occasionally is likely safe, consuming ‘excessive amounts’, particularly in supplement form, could create potential problems. This article explores the potential cinnamon and medication interactions, offering insights into safer consumption.
The Culprit: Cinnamaldehyde
The focus of concern? Cinnamon. Specialists at the University of Mississippi highlight ‘cinnamaldehyde’, a component of cinnamon that may activate receptors influencing how the body processes medication.
This implies that elevated cinnamon consumption could diminish the effect of particular medications, although further research is necessary to solidify this correlation.
“Health worries could emerge if substantial quantities of supplements are ingested without the awareness of a healthcare provider or the medication prescriber,” stated Shabana Khan, a leading scientist at the National Center for Natural Products Research.
“Overuse of supplements might result in a swift elimination of the prescription medicine from the body, possibly rendering the medication less effective.”
Beyond its use in cooking, cinnamon is often praised for its supposed benefits to health. Consistent use has been associated with reduced blood pressure and a possible decreased risk of cardiovascular ailments. According to the World Health Organisation, these heart-related problems cause nearly 17.9 million deaths annually.
Types of Cinnamon: Understanding the Risks
It is crucial to understand that not all cinnamon is created equal. While cinnamon oil, commonly added to food and beverages, carries ‘almost no risk of herb-drug interactions’, the same cannot be said for cinnamon bark.
The type causing concern among researchers in the US is Cassia cinnamon, the variety most likely found at your local grocery store. It’s abundant in ‘coumarin’, recognized for its ‘anticoagulant properties’, implying that cinnamon might function as a blood thinner.
Precautions and Recommendations
Given this information, scientists advise individuals to consult with their doctor before combining cinnamon supplements with prescription drugs. While additional clinical trials are needed to confirm their theories, the combined effects of blood thinning and altered drug metabolism from certain cinnamon products could be dangerous for individuals with pre-existing health issues.
- Those with chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, cancer, arthritis and depression should consult with their healthcare provider before using cinnamon supplements.
- Cinnamon and medication interactions are a real concern and should be discussed with professionals before consumption.
Expert Advice on Supplement Use
“Individuals experiencing chronic illnesses – such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, asthma, obesity, HIV, AIDS, or depression – should exercise caution when consuming cinnamon or other supplements,” Khan added.
“Our top recommendation is to consult with your healthcare provider prior to using any supplements alongside prescription medication. By definition, supplements are not aimed to treat, cure, or mitigate any disease.”