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Epoch Times
13-05-2025
- Health
- Epoch Times
Cinnamon Supplements May Reduce Effectiveness of Medications, Study Finds
That sprinkle of cinnamon in your coffee or oatmeal? Probably harmless. But taken as a supplement, it could change how your body processes prescription drugs, new research suggests. Cinnamaldehyde, the compound behind cinnamon's signature flavor and scent, can interfere with how the body processes medications. The recent study on human liver and gut cells found that at high concentrations, the compound may speed up drug metabolism, clearing medications before they can take full effect. 'Cinnamaldehyde has a low to moderate potential for drug interactions based upon our preliminary in vitro studies,' co-author of the study Bill Gurley, who is a principal scientist at the National Center for Natural Products Research, told The Epoch Times in an email. What Researchers Discovered In a At concentrations above 270 micrograms per milliliter, which would be reached only through taking high-dose supplements, cinnamaldehyde activated these receptors, acting like gatekeepers, telling the body how quickly to break down and eliminate medications. Researchers say that this could be a concern for people taking certain medications—particularly drugs metabolized by the liver enzymes CYP2C9 and CYP1A2, such as some blood thinners, diabetes drugs, antidepressants, and anti-inflammatory drugs. 'Cinnamon and cinnamon-based supplements are quite safe when used in moderation,' Gurley said. 'The likelihood that cinnamaldehyde poses any risk for clinically relevant drug interactions is quite low.' Related Stories 5/11/2025 11/19/2024 The researchers found no changes in PXR activity at lower levels of cinnamaldehyde (up to 20 micrograms per milliliter), suggesting that everyday use—like those typically used in cooking—is unlikely to be a problem. Even in a 'It is okay to consume cinnamon in food or take it as a supplement in moderation,' Shabana Khan, a principal scientist at the university's National Center for Natural Products Research and co-author of the study, told The Epoch Times in an email. Health concerns, however, can arise when supplements are used in high doses or for long periods—especially without a doctor's knowledge. Some people take 'It's difficult to define how much is too much since different preparations or products / supplements will have different quantities or vary in composition,' she said. 'It should be used in moderation.' Know Your Cinnamon Cinnamon is used in several forms, each with varying levels of risk. Ground cinnamon, the kind you likely have in your spice rack, is used in cooking and baking, and up to a teaspoon is considered safe. Cinnamon oil, often used in foods and personal care products, poses little risk in small amounts. However, supplements, which can contain anywhere from 500 to 1,000 milligrams per dose, can be more concentrated and potentially interfere with medications when taken regularly. Most cinnamon sold in U.S. stores is Labels don't always list the type of cinnamon used; unless otherwise stated, it's mostly like going to be cassia. You can also contact the manufacturer for clarification, especially if you are taking cinnamon in supplement form. Apart from cinnamaldehyde, cinnamon also contains coumarin, a naturally occurring blood thinner. 'Cassia cinnamon, often sourced from regions like Southern China, contains significantly higher levels of coumarin and is a potent blood thinner compared to true cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) from Sri Lanka,' study co-author Amar Chittiboyina, associate director at the National Center for Natural Products Research, told The Epoch Times in an email. True cinnamon or 'We strongly advise individuals currently taking blood thinners who are considering incorporating cinnamon into their daily routine to consult with their primary healthcare physician,' Chittiboyina said. Still, researchers say that when used appropriately, cinnamon may offer benefits. A 2022 scientific But as with many natural compounds, the benefits may depend on the dose, the form, and how it's used. Other Competing Foods and Herbs Cinnamon isn't the only natural ingredient that can interact with medications. Common foods and herbs can affect how drugs are absorbed or broken down—something to keep in mind if you take medication regularly. For example, grapefruit can block like warfarin. Dairy products can reduce the absorption of some antibiotics, making them less effective. Several herbs and supplements have also been linked to well-documented drug interactions, according to Gurley. St. John's Wort, often used for mild depression, can reduce the effectiveness of medications like antidepressants, birth control pills, and antivirals by speeding up liver enzyme activity. Goldenseal may slow down drug metabolism of certain statins, antihistamines, and sedatives, increasing drug levels in the body. And licorice root—unless it's had the glycyrrhizin compound removed—can raise blood pressure and interfere with blood pressure medications. 'Our best advice is to talk to a health care provider before using any supplements along with prescription medicine,' Khan said.
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Consuming only this amount of cinnamon may interfere with blood pressure medication
A recent study reveals that cinnamon, a popular spice, can interfere with prescription medications due to compounds like coumarin and cinnamaldehyde. Dr. Clint Steele warns that consuming a teaspoon or more daily may disrupt blood pressure and blood thinner medications. Researchers advise caution, especially for those with chronic conditions, suggesting consultation with doctors before using cinnamon as a supplement. Cinnamon is one of the oldest and most commonly used spice s in the world. From baked goods to beverages, this spice is used in many foods. However, a new study found that cinnamon interacts with prescription medications. A new study from the National Center for Natural Products Research found that a compound in cinnamon could interfere with some prescription medications. The study is published in Food Chemistry: Molecular Sciences . Dr. Clint Steele, a brain and nervous system specialist with over 300K followers on Instagram, has now shared about how that cinnamon sprinkle could deliver undesirable results. In a video shared on Instagram, Dr. Steele points out that consuming as little as one teaspoon or more of cinnamon daily could disrupt the effects of blood pressure medications and blood thinners due to a compound called coumarin, which acts as a natural blood thinner. This overconsumption may amplify the medications' effects, potentially leading to complications. However, Steele emphasizes that smaller doses of cinnamon can still offer health benefits. 'One eighth of a teaspoon actually helps to reverse cognitive decline. You can see my other videos regarding that research,' he said in the video. Steele urges those on blood pressure medications or blood thinners to consult their doctors before adding cinnamon to their diets. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Tap Into Real-Time Signals Designed to Support Your Trading Decisions Trader Headline Learn More Undo 'I'm no means telling you to replace your medication with cinnamon,' he clarifies, 'I want you to understand the facts and talk to your doctor.' Meanwhile, researchers of the recent study found that cinnamaldehyde, a primary component of cinnamon, activates receptors that control the metabolic clearance of the medication from the body. This is why, when consumed in large amounts, cinnamon could reduce the effects of drugs. 'Health concerns could arise if excessive amounts of supplements are consumed without the knowledge of a health care provider or prescriber of the medications. Overconsumption of supplements could lead to a rapid clearance of the prescription medicine from the body, and that could result in making the medicine less effective,' Shabana Khan, the principal scientist of the centre, said in a statement. Study Biotech & Health Tech Abroad: Top Courses at Harvard, Stanford 'In contrast, true cinnamon from Sri Lanka carries a lower risk due to its reduced coumarin content. Coumarin's anticoagulant properties can be hazardous for individuals on blood thinners,' Amar Chittiboyina, the center's associate director, noted. What should you do? The new study confirms that cinnamon can interact with certain prescribed medications. But does that mean you should stop having a cinnamon latte or indulging in the succulent fajitas? No, a little sprinkle of cinnamon won't hurt, but the researchers urge that you take the advice of your doctor, especially if you are interested in using cinnamon as a dietary supplement. They also ask people with chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, asthma, obesity, HIV, AIDS, or depression to be cautious when using cinnamon or any other supplements. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Mother's Day wishes , messages , and quotes !
Fox News
12-05-2025
- Health
- Fox News
Common household spice may interfere with medicines, study suggests
Cinnamon is a popular spice used in food and drinks. It's also used as a supplement for its claims of helping to reduce inflammation and manage blood sugar and cardiovascular health. Despite its flavorful and potential health benefits, a recent study suggested cinnamon may pose a health risk in some individuals taking certain medications, according to a report in Food Chemistry: Molecular Sciences. "Controlled ingestion of cinnamon-containing foods or supplements may have beneficial effects, but overconsumption could induce PXR (pregnane X receptor) or AhR-dependent (aryl hydrocarbon receptor) herb-drug interactions, which can bring deleterious effects on human health, particularly in individuals with chronic health conditions," University of Mississippi researchers said in the study. The main component of cinnamon – called cinnamaldehyde – activates receptors in the body that metabolize medication, the authors said. But consuming it in large quantities may reduce the effectiveness of some medicines. "Overconsumption of supplements could lead to a rapid clearance of the prescription medicine from the body, and that could result in making the medicine less effective," said Shabana Khan, one of the study authors from the National Center for Natural Products Research in Mississippi. The health risk may depend on the type of cinnamon ingested. Cinnamon bark, especially cassia cinnamon, contains a high level of a blood thinner called coumarin, the report said. "Coumarin's anticoagulant properties can be hazardous for individuals on blood thinners," said Amar Chittiboyina, the center's associate director and one of the study authors. "In contrast, true cinnamon from Sri Lanka carries a lower risk due to its reduced coumarin content." Elaena Quattrocchi, a pharmacist and associate professor of pharmacy practice at Long Island University in New York, told Fox News Digital that "consuming half to 1 teaspoon of cassia cinnamon powder or 2.5 teaspoons of eylon cinnamon daily is considered safe for most adults." But Quattrocchi, who was not affiliated with the study, warned that coumarin can cause liver damage with excessive use. People with pre-existing liver conditions should speak with their healthcare providers before consuming cinnamon. Cinnamon oil, used in food and drinks and topically as an antifungal or antibacterial, presents almost "no risk of herb-drug interactions," Chittiboyina said, according to the report. Individuals with chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, cancer, HIV/AIDS, obesity or depression "should be cautious when using cinnamon or any other supplements," said Khan. Although sprinkling cinnamon on your coffee is "unlikely to cause an issue, using highly concentrated cinnamon as a dietary supplement might," the study said. Researchers acknowledged that more analysis is needed to investigate herb-drug interactions with cinnamon and its role in the human body. For more Lifestyle articles, visit "We know there's a potential for cinnamaldehyde to activate these receptors that can pose a risk for drug interactions … but we won't know exactly what will happen until we do a clinical study," co-author Bill Gurley said in the release. Khan said before using any supplements with prescribed medication, people should talk to their healthcare providers.
Time of India
04-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Turmeric to cinnamon: Common herbs and spices you shouldn't mix with your medicine
Herbs and spices have long been considered a natural and safe way to flavor your food, aid digestion and support immunity. While these centuries-old superfoods are still used as kitchen staple, and trusted for their potential to boost wellness and prevent chronic diseases like arthritis, Alzheimer's, and heart disease, one should exercise caution when combining them with certain medications. In particular, too much of these 5 popular spices should be avoided when taking certain medications. People on blood thinners, blood pressure medicines, and heart rhythm drugs especially need to be careful. Cinnamon A pinch of cinnamon may make your curry or tea flavoursome, but think twice before increasing its consumption, or taking a cinnamon supplement without a doctor's advice, as a new study has found it may interact with your medicine and lessen its effect. A recent study published in Food Chemistry: Molecular Sciences has raised new concerns about how concentrated forms of cinnamon such as supplements or essential oils may interfere with the body's ability to process certain prescription medications. Researchers from the University of Mississippi's National Center for Natural Products Research simulated human digestion and investigated how cinnamon and its key chemical components like cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and cinnamon oil affect the body's xenobiotic receptors. These receptors help regulate how drugs are metabolized and cleared from the body. It was found that cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid activated these drug-processing receptors, which could lead the body to break down medications more quickly than intended. This may result in reduced drug effectiveness, especially for medications that require steady levels in the bloodstream to be effective. Ginger Any spice added in limited quantity to food is unlikely to cause any harm. It's the overdose of it that one must be cautious about. Ginger in recommended amounts is known to ease nausea, reduce inflammation, boost digestion, and control cholesterol and blood pressure. However, excess of this beneficial spice, can harm your health, especially if you are on blood thinners. People on anticoagulant therapy - blood thinners such as warfarin, aspirin and others - should seek advice from their healthcare experts regarding their ginger consumption. While having a cup of ginger tea or using it in your recipe, may not be harmful, too much of it can be risky. Besides, large amounts of ginger may affect insulin and lower blood sugar. Licorice Licorice root, not to be confused with licorice-flavored candy, can interact with a wide range of medications and may pose serious health risks if not consumed with caution. It has been shown to raise blood pressure and interfere with heart and blood pressure medications. The herb may also affect how the liver processes various drugs, including common pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications like celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Voltaren), and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), as well as medications like glipizide for diabetes and fluvastatin for cholesterol. Women taking oral contraceptives have reported increased blood pressure and lowered potassium levels when combining them with licorice. It can also intensify the effects of certain antidepressants and corticosteroids, leading to heightened side effects. In people using stimulant laxatives, licorice can exacerbate potassium loss, which may be harmful. Additionally, it may interfere with blood sugar levels in those taking insulin or diabetes medications, and reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners, increasing the risk of clotting. St John's Wort Commonly taken as a natural remedy for mild to moderate depression, St. John's Wort can significantly interfere with many medications, says study . It can reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants, leading to potential worsening of mood symptoms. It may also lower the efficacy of birth control pills, increase the risk of unplanned pregnancy, and affect the performance of blood thinners, immunosuppressants, and certain heart medications. This herb speeds up how the liver breaks down drugs, which can reduce their concentration in the body and make them less effective. Turmeric Turmeric in your curry is fine, but you should think twice when taking supplements. Too much of it can interact with your medicine. This happens due to the spice's active component called curcumin, which may pose risks when combined with certain medications. One key concern is its potential to increase bleeding risk when taken alongside blood thinners such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel, says study . While turmeric is generally safe to add in your food, concentrated supplements can amplify these effects, making it important for those on anticoagulants or upcoming surgeries to consult a healthcare provider before use. Combat Monsoon Cold & Cough: Here's A Quick Fix With Indian Borage Leaf And Turmeric Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Newsweek
04-05-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
Common Household Spice Could Mess With Your Medications
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A new study suggested that certain types of cinnamon products could interfere with some medications due to their metabolic impacts. Researchers from the National Center for Natural Products Research (NCNPR) at the University of Mississippi illustrated this by testing the absorption of medications following cinnamon intake in a material simulating fasting gastric fluid. "People who suffer from chronic diseases – like hypertension, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, asthma, obesity, HIV, AIDS or depression – should be cautious when using cinnamon or any other supplements," Shabana Khan, a principal scientist in the natural products center, said in the press release, adding "By definition, supplements are not meant to treat, cure or mitigate any disease." Why It Matters The common spice is found in many homes, restaurants, and coffee houses and while researchers say having a little of it is harmless, larger quantities could cause potential medication efficacy issues. It has long been known to have good metabolic and anti-inflammatory properties and thus has been marketed as supplements in different forms, including oils, powder and capsules. What To Know The study from the NCNPR says not knowing the source and quantity of cinnamaldehyde in the cinnamon can create dangerous situations, especially for those with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, cancer and depression. When taken in large doses, like those which can be found in some supplements, it can lead to a change in how quickly the large intestine can absorb the medicine, and thus, how effective the treatment will be on an individual. Researchers tested using cinnamaldehyde, the active component that gives the spice its scent and flavor. They found that the absorption of medications into the simulated gastric fluid was slowed after adding cinnamaldehyde in comparison to the fluid that did not have it added. While the results aren't definitive, they do point in a direction of danger, leading researchers to caution medication takers and seek further research. NCNPR Associate Director Amar Chittiboyina said the issues don't extend to all cinnamon products. He said cinnamon oil doesn't have the same risk of drug interactions as cinnamon bark, which can have a large amount of coumarin, a blood thinner. This is mostly found in Cassia cinnamon from southern China, according to Chittiboyina. "In contrast, true cinnamon from Sri Lanka carries a lower risk due to its reduced coumarin content," he explained in the press release. "Coumarin's anticoagulant properties can be hazardous for individuals on blood thinners." In this stock image, cinnamon is seen in Berlin on January 20. In this stock image, cinnamon is seen in Berlin on January People Are Saying Bill Gurley, a principal scientist in the Ole Miss center and co-author of the study, said: "We know there's a potential for cinnamaldehyde to activate these receptors that can pose a risk for drug interactions. That's what could happen, but we won't know exactly what will happen until we do a clinical study." Shabana Khan, a principal scientist in the natural products center, said in the press release: "Health concerns could arise if excessive amounts of supplements are consumed without the knowledge of health care provider or prescriber of the medications. Overconsumption of supplements could lead to a rapid clearance of the prescription medicine from the body, and that could result in making the medicine less effective." What Happens Next? Gurley said a clinical study is needed to further study the effects of cinnamaldehyde on patients' medication consumption and efficacy of those medications. While those studies are not yet completed, researchers say people should talk to their doctor before adding any cinnamon supplements to their diet in addition to medications.
