Cinnamon as a Possible Treatment for Diabetes?

When most of us think of cinnamon, we think of pumpkin pies and hot spiced wine. We think of using it to add a warm fragrance to our homes, especially during the holidays. Medicinal uses for cinnamon do not immediately spring to mind; although, we may have some memory of using a cinnamon swab to treat a toothache. However, if you happened to watch the "Celebrity Apprentice" recently when Brett Michaels won, you might recall hearing him mention that cinnamon might be useful in treating diabetes. In fact, research has been and continues to be conducted regarding the use of cinnamon as a treatment for diabetes, specifically type 2 diabetes.

Cinnamon has been used for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians used it in their embalming process. Moses used it in a holy ointment, and it was considered a luxury item in ancient Babylon. Later, cinnamon became a valuable trading commodity. It was so valuable, in fact, that the Portuguese ceased Sri Lanka (the native home of the cinnamon tree) in 1536 just to gain control of the spice.

Cinnamon is a medium-sized evergreen tree with leathery green leaves and papery brown bark. It is the inner bark of young stems that is used to make the cinnamon sticks with which most of us are familiar, as well as the popular essential oil. Cinnamon was a popular medicinal herb to use to aid digestion and alleviate vomiting, having astringent, stimulant, and carminative properties. In addition, it was found to kill various types of fungi and bacteria, such as those causing botulism and staph infections. More recently, studies show that cinnamon is one of those spices that also might help to control diabetes.

One such study of 30 men and 30 women [see the reference to the American Diabetes Association below under "References" regarding studies mentioned in this article], who consumed 1, 3, or 6 grams of cinnamon per day for 40 days. It was concluded that this much cinnamon reduced the serum glucose, triglyceride, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol levels in persons with type 2 diabetes. In addition, the physicians conducting this study noted the role of diet in dealing with such diseases as diabetes. Cinnamon was one of the spices that was noted to have insulin-enhancing properties and that it also improved lipid metabolism, antioxidant status, and capillary function.

Another study conducted by the Department of Human Nutrition, NWFP Agricultural University in Peshawar, Pakistan, yielded similar results. In addition, they found that the test subjects who consumed the cinnamon did not experience significant increases in glucose serum levels and in lipid levels after the trial period was over and they had quit consuming cinnamon. This indicated that cinnamon has a cumulative effect and need not be consumed on a daily basis to have beneficial effects.

While these studies and others like them do not suggest that persons suffering from diabetes should cease using their insulin and begin consuming cinnamon, they do offer hope to diabetics. In addition, people not suffering from diabetes can profit from the health benefits offered by cinnamon, as well.

Before trying any herbal remedies, you should first consult your primary healthcare professional and/or a certified herbalist. Diabetics should definitely consult their physicians regarding the use of cinnamon as part of their regimen.

References:
American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Care. Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes

Houdret, Jessica. Practical Herb Garden. London, England: Hermes House, 2003.

Kowalchik, Claire and William H. Hylton, eds. Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, Inc., 1998.