Cassia Cinnamon, derived from the bark of the Cinnamomum cassia from China, is a spice commonly used in cooking for its warm, sweet flavor. In herbal medicine, it is valued for its digestive, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Traditionally, it has been used to support digestion and blood sugar regulation. However, it is different than Ceylon cinnamon, and due to its high coumarin content, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid potential liver damage.

You might need cassia cinnamon if you. . .

• Have poor digestion
• Want to support healthy blood sugar levels
• Have joint discomfort

Benefits of Cassia Cinnamon

• May help support healthy blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity
• Reduces bloating, gas, and indigestion
• Antimicrobial
• Immune supporting
• Anti-inflammatory

Common Ways to Use Cassia Cinnamon

You can use cassia cinnamon in cooking and baking, cinnamon tea, tinctures, extracts, or topically.

Growing and Foraging Information

Cassia Cinnamon is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia. While it's not typically grown in temperate climates, it is possible to cultivate it in USDA zones 10 and 11, where the weather is warm year-round. Foraging for it is not really practical in the US, as these trees are not native here and don’t easily grow there.

Safety Concerns

Drug Interaction: Although it is sold in grocery stores everywhere, consuming cassia cinnamon can cause drug interactions, especially due to its ability to influence blood sugar levels and its coumarin content. If you have health concerns or are taking any prescription medication, please consult your healthcare provider before adding new herbs to your diet.

Breastfeeding and Pregnancy: It is regularly used in cooking and baking. It is safe as a food. However, it should always be used in moderation.

Other Concerns: Cassia Cinnamon contains higher levels of coumarin, which can cause liver damage if consumed in large amounts.

Select Studies About Cassia Cinnamon

Stimulatory Effects of Cinnamon Extract (Cinnamomum cassia) during the Initiation Stage of 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Differentiation

This study concluded, “Genes that were involved in the regulation of fatty acid oxidation were unexpectedly upregulated. Taken together, cinnamon may boost lipid storage in white adipocytes and increase the fatty acid oxidation capacity throughout the initiation stage of differentiation, which may be beneficial for the prevention of obesity-induced type II diabetes.”

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) hot water extract improves inflammation and tight junctions in the intestine in vitro and in vivo

This study examines cassia tea's benefits on digestion, specifically the health of the intestines.