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Cinnamomum Cassia Extract

Also known as: Cassia cinnamon, Chinese cinnamon, Chinese cassia, Cinnamomum cassia Presl, Cinnamomum cassia

Overview

Cinnamomum cassia, commonly known as Cassia cinnamon or Chinese cinnamon, is a tropical evergreen tree widely used as a spice and in traditional Chinese medicine. It is rich in over 160 phytochemicals, including terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, and glycosides. This botanical supplement is primarily recognized for its potential to improve glycemic control, as well as its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cardiovascular health benefits. Research, including clinical trials and meta-analyses, largely supports its role in blood glucose regulation. While its efficacy in managing blood sugar is moderately established, further rigorous investigation is needed to fully validate its other purported pharmacological effects and to standardize research methodologies.

Benefits

Cinnamomum cassia demonstrates significant benefits in glycemic control, particularly for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes. Meta-analyses show that cassia cinnamon powder can reduce fasting blood glucose (FBG) by approximately 1.55 mmol/L and postprandial blood glucose area under the curve (AUC) by 51.8 mmol/L·min. A water extract form also lowered FBG by 0.76 mmol/L. These reductions are statistically significant and clinically relevant for glycemic management. Evidence suggests improvement in HbA1c in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes patients at doses as low as 1 g/day, though HbA1c effects are less consistent across studies. Glycemic benefits are more pronounced in type 2 diabetes patients with poor glycemic control (HbA1c >8%). Healthy adults may require higher doses (≥5 g/day) to observe significant postprandial glucose improvements. Beyond glycemic effects, preclinical and some clinical studies report anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, antibacterial, antiviral, cardiovascular protective, neuroprotective, and immunoregulatory effects, though these require further validation.

How it works

The primary mechanism for Cinnamomum cassia's hypoglycemic effects involves enhancing insulin sensitivity and modulating glucose metabolism pathways. Active compounds such as cinnamaldehyde and procyanidins are believed to play a key role by influencing insulin receptor signaling and improving glucose uptake by cells. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may also contribute to overall improved metabolic function and reduced insulin resistance. The specific phytochemical content and bioavailability vary depending on the preparation method, with differences observed between water extracts and powders in terms of their efficacy and absorption profiles.

Side effects

Cinnamomum cassia is generally considered safe when consumed at typical supplemental doses, usually up to 5 grams per day. Rare side effects may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. A significant concern with Cassia cinnamon is its coumarin content. At high doses, coumarin can cause hepatotoxicity (liver damage), making long-term, high-dose use ill-advised. Individuals with pre-existing liver disease should avoid C. cassia or use it only under strict medical supervision. Due to its coumarin content, C. cassia may interact with anticoagulant medications (blood thinners), increasing the risk of bleeding. Therefore, individuals on such medications should consult a healthcare provider before use. There is insufficient safety data for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals, who should avoid its use or seek medical advice.

Dosage

For glycemic effects, particularly in poorly controlled diabetes, a minimum effective dose of approximately 1 gram per day is suggested. The optimal dose range typically falls between 1 and 5 grams per day. Healthy individuals may require higher doses, potentially 5 grams per day or more, to observe significant postprandial glucose improvements. To mitigate the risk of coumarin-induced hepatotoxicity, the maximum safe dose is generally considered to be 5 grams per day, though this can vary based on individual sensitivity and the coumarin content of the specific product. Cinnamomum cassia is often taken with meals to help modulate postprandial glucose levels. Both powder and water extract forms are available, with powder form showing stronger evidence for glycemic control. Preparation methods influence bioavailability; water extracts may contain less coumarin but might also exhibit lower efficacy compared to the powder form.

FAQs

Is Cinnamomum cassia safe for daily use?

Generally, yes, at recommended doses (up to 5g/day). However, due to its coumarin content, caution is advised, especially for long-term use or in individuals with liver conditions.

How soon can effects be seen?

Glycemic improvements, such as reductions in fasting blood glucose, may be observed within a few weeks of consistent daily supplementation.

Does it lower HbA1c?

Evidence is mixed; some studies suggest it can improve HbA1c in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes patients, but the effect is not consistent across all research.

Is it better than other cinnamon species?

C. cassia has a higher coumarin content than C. verum (true cinnamon), which impacts its safety profile. While effective for glucose, C. verum might be preferred for lower coumarin intake.

Can it replace diabetes medication?

No, Cinnamomum cassia should not replace prescribed diabetes medications. It may serve as an adjunct therapy but always consult a healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan.

Research Sources

https://synapse.koreamed.org/articles/1081520 – This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigated the effects of cassia cinnamon on blood glucose. It found that cassia cinnamon powder significantly reduced fasting blood glucose and postprandial glucose AUC in diabetic/pre-diabetic adults. While a water extract also lowered FBG, no significant change in HbA1c was observed, highlighting the need for further research on long-term glycemic markers.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31557828/ – This narrative review summarized the diverse pharmacological effects of Cinnamomum cassia, identifying over 160 compounds. It confirmed anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and other beneficial properties, drawing from both preclinical and clinical data. The review emphasized the need for more rigorous clinical trials to validate these effects and understand the underlying mechanisms fully.
https://journals.lww.com/cmc/fulltext/2021/10000/clinical_research_on_cinnamomi_cortex__a_scoping.7.aspx – This scoping review of 15 clinical studies on Cinnamomi Cortex (C. cassia) found that 1 g/day improved HbA1c in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes patients. It also suggested that doses of 5 g/day or more might be necessary for postprandial glucose improvements in healthy adults. The review highlighted heterogeneity in cinnamon species identification and small sample sizes as limitations, calling for standardized research.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22579946/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the impact of cinnamon supplementation on type 2 diabetes patients. It concluded that cinnamon modestly improved fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels. However, the study noted variability in effect sizes due to differences in cinnamon doses, preparations, and small sample sizes across the included randomized controlled trials.