Chinese Cinnamon Twig Extract
Also known as: Cinnamomum cassia, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Cinnamomum osmophloeum, Chinese cinnamon, cassia cinnamon, cinnamon twig, Gui Zhi
Overview
Chinese cinnamon twig extract is derived from the twigs of *Cinnamomum cassia* and related species. It is a common ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine, valued for its warming and circulatory properties. The extract contains bioactive compounds such as trans-cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and eugenol, which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and insulin-sensitizing effects. It is primarily used to improve circulation, support metabolic health, and manage blood sugar and cardiovascular risk factors. Research on Chinese cinnamon twig extract is considered to be at a moderate level, with several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses available. However, the quality of evidence varies due to heterogeneity and small sample sizes in some studies. Standardized extracts are preferred to ensure consistent potency.
Benefits
Chinese cinnamon twig extract has shown potential benefits in several areas. It can improve blood sugar control, as demonstrated by studies using Cinnulin PF at 0.5 g/day for 12 weeks, which led to reduced fasting glucose and oxidative stress markers. Meta-analyses have indicated that it may reduce insulin resistance and fasting blood sugar in women with PCOS, although effect sizes are modest. Some studies suggest that it can improve lipid profiles by reducing total cholesterol and LDL-C, but these results are inconsistent and may depend on the dosage and duration of use. Additionally, preclinical and some clinical studies have reported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. The most robust evidence supports its use in women with PCOS and individuals with metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes. Improvements in glucose and lipid markers are typically observed after 8–12 weeks of supplementation.
How it works
Chinese cinnamon twig extract enhances insulin sensitivity, reduces oxidative stress, and modulates inflammatory pathways. It primarily affects glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and vascular function. The extract's molecular targets include insulin receptor signaling, AMPK activation, NF-κB inhibition, and antioxidant enzymes. Bioactive compounds like cinnamaldehyde and eugenol are absorbed orally, but their bioavailability and pharmacokinetics in humans are not fully understood. These compounds interact with various body systems to exert their beneficial effects, contributing to improved metabolic health and overall well-being.
Side effects
Chinese cinnamon twig extract is generally considered safe at typical doses, with no significant adverse reactions reported in meta-analyses and systematic reviews. Common side effects are not reported in clinical trials. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been reported in a small subset of individuals (1-5%). Rare side effects include possible allergic reactions (less than 1%). Caution is advised due to the potential for additive effects with hypoglycemic or antihypertensive medications. It is contraindicated for individuals with known allergies to cinnamon. Limited data exists regarding its use during pregnancy and lactation, so caution is advised. Overall, the safety profile is favorable, but monitoring for gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions is recommended.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Chinese cinnamon twig extract is 0.5–1 g/day of a standardized extract, such as Cinnulin PF. The optimal dosage range is 1–3 g/day, depending on the extract and intended use. Up to 6 g/day has been used in clinical studies without significant adverse effects, but long-term safety above 3 g/day is uncertain. It can be taken with or without food, as timing does not appear critical for efficacy. Standardized extracts are preferred for consistency, as the potency of whole herb or powder may vary. Bioavailability may be enhanced with food, but data are limited. No required cofactors have been identified.
FAQs
What are the primary uses of Chinese cinnamon twig extract?
It is primarily used for metabolic health, particularly in individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, to improve blood sugar control and lipid profiles.
Is Chinese cinnamon twig extract safe?
It is generally safe at typical doses. Monitor for gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. Caution is advised if you are taking hypoglycemic or antihypertensive medications.
How should I take Chinese cinnamon twig extract?
Take it once or twice daily, with or without food. Most evidence suggests improvements in blood sugar and lipid markers after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
What results can I expect from taking Chinese cinnamon twig extract?
Expect modest improvements in blood sugar and lipid markers after 8–12 weeks. It is not a substitute for prescribed medications; effects are adjunctive and modest.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39053085/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 RCTs involving women with PCOS found that cinnamon supplementation improved insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and fasting blood sugar. However, the effect sizes were modest and not always significant across all studies, indicating variability in outcomes. The review was assessed as moderate quality due to heterogeneity in study design and sample sizes.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8804376/ – This umbrella review of meta-analyses and systematic reviews assessed the safety of cinnamon as an adjuvant treatment. The review found no significant adverse reactions reported across multiple RCTs and various populations. However, the quality of the included reviews was noted as low to moderate, suggesting some limitations in the overall assessment.
- https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2021/fo/d1fo01935j – This study examined the effects of cinnamon extracts on healthy adults and T2D patients over a 3-month period. The findings indicated a significant decrease in total cholesterol (TC) and LDL-C, but inconsistent effects on HDL and triglycerides. The study was rated as moderate quality due to small sample sizes in some trials and variability in outcomes for lipid markers.
- https://apm.amegroups.org/article/view/83531/html – This article discusses the traditional uses and pharmacological properties of Cinnamomi Cortex, highlighting its role in traditional medicine. It covers various aspects, including its chemical composition and potential therapeutic applications. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the historical and contemporary uses of cinnamon in healthcare.
- https://journals.lww.com/cmc/fulltext/2021/10000/clinical_research_on_cinnamomi_cortex__a_scoping.7.aspx – This scoping review examines clinical research on Cinnamomi Cortex, providing an overview of its applications and effects. It synthesizes findings from various studies, offering insights into its potential benefits and limitations. The review aims to map the existing evidence base and identify areas for future research.
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