Can Someone With High Blood Pressure Take Cinnamon? The Important Facts

October 21, 2025 •

3 min read

While cinnamon has been a staple spice for centuries, it is increasingly being studied for its potential cardiovascular benefits. The good news is that for individuals with high blood pressure, moderate use of cinnamon is generally safe, but there are important factors to consider, particularly concerning the type and quantity consumed, to avoid potential risks.

Quick Summary

This article explores the relationship between cinnamon and high blood pressure, detailing the potential benefits and significant risks. It clarifies the crucial difference between Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon, provides guidance on consumption, and warns about interactions with antihypertensive and anticoagulant medications.

Key Points

Moderate Amounts are Likely Safe: Adding small, culinary amounts of cinnamon to your diet is generally considered safe for those with high blood pressure, but it should not be seen as a substitute for medication.
Choose Ceylon Cinnamon: Opt for Ceylon ("true") cinnamon, as it contains very low levels of coumarin, a compound that can cause liver damage and interfere with medication in higher amounts.
Be Wary of Cassia Cinnamon: The more common and cheaper Cassia variety contains much higher coumarin levels. People with high blood pressure should consume it sparingly.
Supplements Require Caution: High-dose cinnamon supplements are more likely to interact with medications and cause side effects. Always consult a doctor before starting any supplement regimen.
Consult Your Physician: It is critical to discuss any significant changes in diet or supplement intake with your doctor, especially if you take blood pressure medication or blood thinners.
Watch for Medication Interactions: Some evidence suggests that high intake of cinnamon may affect how the body processes certain medications, potentially making them less effective.
Manage Expectations: While some studies show a modest blood pressure-lowering effect from cinnamon, the evidence is mixed, and it is not a treatment for hypertension on its own.

Understanding Cinnamon's Effect on High Blood Pressure

Recent meta-analyses of clinical trials suggest that cinnamon supplementation can lead to modest reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, particularly in individuals with certain metabolic conditions. Research suggests potential mechanisms, including cinnamon’s ability to act as an antioxidant, reduce inflammation, and relax blood vessels. However, these studies are often small, and the evidence is mixed, meaning cinnamon is not a replacement for prescribed medical treatment. Proper high blood pressure management requires prescribed medications, a balanced diet, and regular exercise.

The Crucial Difference Between Cinnamon Varieties

Not all cinnamon is created equal. The two main types, Ceylon and Cassia, have different chemical compositions that are very important for those with hypertension to understand.

Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): Often called "true cinnamon," this variety is native to Sri Lanka and parts of India. It has a milder, sweeter flavor and a negligible amount of coumarin.

Cassia Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia): This is the most common type found in North American grocery stores. It has a stronger, spicier flavor and contains much higher levels of a compound called coumarin.

The Danger of Coumarin

Coumarin is a natural chemical compound that can cause liver damage when consumed in large quantities. It also has blood-thinning properties. This is why Cassia cinnamon, with its high coumarin content, poses a much greater risk for those with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking blood-thinning medications. For individuals with high blood pressure, who are often on medication, choosing Ceylon cinnamon is a safer option.

Potential Drug Interactions with Cinnamon

Excessive cinnamon intake, especially in concentrated supplement form, may interfere with the effectiveness of certain medications. A 2025 study suggested that the compound cinnamaldehyde may activate receptors that speed up how the body metabolizes some prescription drugs, potentially reducing their effectiveness. Individuals taking medications processed by the liver, such as blood pressure medication, should be particularly cautious.

Comparison of Cinnamon Types for High Blood Pressure Patients


Feature	Ceylon Cinnamon	Cassia Cinnamon
Coumarin Content	Very low to negligible	Very high
Flavor Profile	Mild, sweet, and delicate	Strong, pungent, and spicy
Safety for Regular Use	Safer for daily consumption due to low coumarin	Consume in moderation due to high coumarin and liver risk
Potential Health Benefits	Offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties with less risk	Similar health properties but higher risk of coumarin-related issues with high amounts
Cost	Typically more expensive	More affordable and widely available

How to Incorporate Cinnamon Safely into Your Diet

If you have high blood pressure and wish to use cinnamon, follow these guidelines to minimize risks:

Choose the right type: Opt for Ceylon cinnamon, especially if you plan to use it daily or in larger amounts.
Stick to food quantities: Use cinnamon as a culinary spice in moderate amounts rather than relying on high-dose supplements.
Consult your doctor: Always speak with your healthcare provider before adding cinnamon supplements to your routine, especially if you are on blood pressure medication or blood thinners. They can provide personalized advice and monitor for any potential interactions.

Conclusion: Caution and Moderation are Key

While some studies have shown that cinnamon may offer a modest benefit for lowering blood pressure, it is not a cure and should not replace conventional medical treatment. For individuals with hypertension, the primary concern lies in the type of cinnamon used and the amount consumed, largely due to the coumarin content in Cassia cinnamon. By choosing Ceylon cinnamon and using it in moderation, it is possible to enjoy the flavor and potential antioxidant benefits of this spice safely. Always consult a doctor before making significant dietary changes, especially when managing a chronic condition like high blood pressure, to ensure it does not interfere with your prescribed medications.

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Frequently Asked Questions

No. While some studies suggest a modest blood pressure-lowering effect from cinnamon, it is not a proven treatment for hypertension and is not a substitute for prescribed medication. You should never stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor.

Ceylon, or "true" cinnamon, is milder in flavor and has very low levels of coumarin. Cassia, the most common type, has a stronger flavor and contains high levels of coumarin, which can be harmful in large amounts.

High-dose cinnamon supplements can potentially interfere with certain medications, including blood pressure drugs. It is crucial to speak with your doctor before starting any cinnamon supplements to avoid adverse interactions.

Yes, excessive consumption of Cassia cinnamon can be harmful to the liver due to its high coumarin content. Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions are especially vulnerable.

Yes, Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, which is also a blood-thinning agent. Combining high amounts of Cassia cinnamon with prescribed blood thinners can increase the risk of bleeding.

There is no universally recommended amount for the medicinal use of cinnamon. For culinary purposes, sprinkling small amounts is generally safe. If using Cassia cinnamon regularly, it's wise to limit intake. It's always best to discuss appropriate amounts with your healthcare provider.

Research suggests that cinnamon may help lower blood pressure by acting as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation, and potentially relaxing and dilating blood vessels. However, these effects are modest and not fully understood.