Warnings issued for spice that can interfere with prescription medicine effectiveness
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The spice that can interfere with prescription medicines
- High doses of cinnamon, particularly Cassia cinnamon (a common, cheaper variety), can reduce the effectiveness of some prescription medications.
- The compound cinnamaldehyde, found in cinnamon, activates receptors that break down certain medicines.
- Cinnamon oil doesn't pose this risk, but cinnamon bark, especially Cassia cinnamon, can interact with medications.
- People with chronic illnesses or taking prescription medications should consult their doctor before consuming large amounts of cinnamon or cinnamon supplements.
- True cinnamon from Sri Lanka has lower coumarin content and thus poses less risk of interacting with blood thinners.