Cinnamon is a popular spice. It’s high in cinnamaldehyde, which is thought to be responsible for most of cinnamon’s health benefits.
Cinnamon contains large amounts of highly potent polyphenol antioxidants.
The antioxidants in cinnamon have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help lower your risk of disease.
Cinnamon may improve some key risk factors for heart disease, including cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure.
Cinnamon has been shown to significantly increase sensitivity to the hormone insulin, which may improve blood sugar control.
Cinnamon has been shown to reduce fasting blood sugar levels when used in doses ranging from 1–6 g or 0.5–2 tsp. per day
Cinnamon has been shown to lead to various improvements for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease in animal studies. However, human research is lacking.
Animal and test-tube studies indicate that cinnamon may have protective effects against cancer. More research in humans is needed.
Cinnamaldehyde has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which may reduce infections, as well as tooth decay and bad breath.
Though there is limited research in humans, some test-tube studies suggest that cinnamon may help protect against certain viruses.