Is it safe to drink cinnamon tea every day?

January 3, 2026 •

4 min read

According to the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), a compound called coumarin, found in certain types of cinnamon, can be detrimental to liver health if consumed in high quantities over a prolonged period. This critical fact emphasizes that the safety of drinking cinnamon tea daily depends heavily on the type of cinnamon used and the amount consumed.

Quick Summary

The daily safety of cinnamon tea hinges on the cinnamon type, with Cassia containing high coumarin levels that risk liver damage in excessive intake, while Ceylon contains negligible amounts and is safer for regular consumption. Dosage, individual health conditions, and medication interactions are also key factors for consideration.

Key Points

Type of Cinnamon Matters: The safety of drinking cinnamon tea daily depends heavily on the type. Use Ceylon ('true' cinnamon) instead of Cassia, which contains high levels of coumarin.
Cassia Poses Liver Risk: Cassia cinnamon, commonly found in supermarkets, contains high levels of coumarin, which can cause liver damage when consumed excessively over time.
Ceylon is Safe for Daily Use: Ceylon cinnamon has only trace amounts of coumarin, making it the safer choice for regular, daily consumption without significant risk to the liver.
Consult a Doctor for Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with liver disease, those on blood thinners, or people with diabetes should consult a healthcare provider before regular daily cinnamon tea consumption.
Mindful Moderation is Key: Even with safe Ceylon cinnamon, moderate intake is recommended. A single cup a day is considered a reasonable and healthy amount.
Check Product Labels: Ensure your tea bags or sticks specify 'Ceylon' or 'True' cinnamon. Unlabeled or cheaper products are likely to be Cassia.

Understanding the Two Main Types of Cinnamon

Not all cinnamon is created equal. The key to understanding the safety of drinking cinnamon tea daily lies in distinguishing between the two primary types: Cassia and Ceylon. Their fundamental difference is the coumarin content, a natural flavoring agent that can be harmful in high doses.

Cassia Cinnamon: The common supermarket variety

High coumarin content: The most common and inexpensive cinnamon found in North American grocery stores is Cassia. Its high coumarin level is the main health concern for daily drinkers.
Health risks: The tolerable daily intake for coumarin is roughly 0.1 mg per kg of body weight. Just one teaspoon of ground Cassia can exceed this limit for some adults, posing a risk of liver toxicity and inflammation, especially for sensitive individuals or those with pre-existing liver conditions.

Ceylon Cinnamon: The 'True' cinnamon

Low coumarin content: Ceylon, or "true" cinnamon, is derived from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum verum tree. It contains only trace amounts of coumarin, making it the much safer option for frequent consumption.
Delicate flavor: Ceylon is prized for its more delicate, complex, and sweeter flavor profile, unlike the stronger, spicier notes of Cassia.

Potential Health Benefits of Cinnamon Tea

When made with Ceylon cinnamon and consumed in moderation, daily cinnamon tea offers a range of potential health benefits, supported by both traditional use and scientific research. These benefits are attributed to its wealth of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Blood Sugar Regulation: Cinnamon can help improve insulin sensitivity and slow down the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive system, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
Heart Health Support: Studies have shown that cinnamon may help lower levels of total cholesterol, 'bad' LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, while helping to maintain 'good' HDL cholesterol. It can also help lower blood pressure.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: The antioxidants in cinnamon can help reduce inflammation, which is linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Digestive Aid: Cinnamon tea can help soothe digestive issues like bloating and cramping by stimulating digestive enzymes.
Antimicrobial Properties: Research has shown cinnamon to have antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacterial and fungal infections.

Potential Risks and Who Should Be Cautious

Despite the benefits, regular daily consumption of cinnamon tea is not without risks, especially if the wrong type or excessive quantities are used. The primary risks are related to coumarin exposure and potential medication interactions.

Comparison of Cinnamon Types for Daily Tea


Feature	Cassia Cinnamon	Ceylon Cinnamon
Coumarin Content	High	Negligible
Flavor Profile	Strong, spicy, pungent	Mild, sweet, floral, complex
Appearance (Stick)	Thick, dark, single curl	Thin, delicate, multi-layered
Primary Risk (Daily)	Liver toxicity	Very low risk
Cost	Less expensive, common	More expensive, specialty
Best for Daily Tea	Not recommended	Recommended

High-Risk Groups

Individuals with Liver Conditions: Those with liver disease are particularly vulnerable to coumarin toxicity and should avoid regular Cassia cinnamon intake.
Individuals on Certain Medications: Cinnamon can interact with blood-thinning medications (like warfarin) and diabetes drugs. Large intakes can enhance their effects and lead to dangerously low blood sugar or increased bleeding risk.
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: Due to a lack of sufficient safety data, and the risk of stimulating uterine contractions, high doses of cinnamon tea should be avoided during pregnancy. It is also recommended to stick to food amounts while breastfeeding.

Practical Tips for Safe Daily Consumption

To safely incorporate cinnamon tea into your daily routine, consider the following practical advice:

Choose Ceylon: Always opt for Ceylon cinnamon sticks or tea bags for daily consumption. The packaging should specify "Ceylon" or "True Cinnamon." If it simply says "Cinnamon," it's almost certainly the high-coumarin Cassia.
Monitor Your Intake: Even with Ceylon, moderation is key. A single cup of tea daily is a reasonable and safe amount.
Use Sticks for Tea: Brewing tea from a cinnamon stick can provide a milder flavor and ensures you're not getting a concentrated dose of powder, which may have higher coumarin content in the case of Cassia.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any adverse reactions such as stomach upset or mouth sores, which can be signs of sensitivity.
Consult a Professional: If you have a medical condition, are on medication, or are pregnant, speak with a doctor or a registered dietitian before starting a daily regimen of cinnamon tea.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Daily Cinnamon Tea

The question of whether it is safe to drink cinnamon tea every day is not a simple 'yes' or 'no.' It depends entirely on the type of cinnamon used. Regular consumption of tea made with high-coumarin Cassia cinnamon carries a significant risk of liver damage and other side effects for sensitive individuals. In contrast, using low-coumarin Ceylon cinnamon makes daily cinnamon tea a safe and potentially beneficial habit. By prioritizing Ceylon, adhering to moderate intake, and considering individual health factors, you can safely enjoy the delicious flavor and health advantages of this ancient spice without concern. For anyone with underlying health issues or on medication, a professional medical opinion is always recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Coumarin is a natural chemical compound found in high concentrations in Cassia cinnamon. In excessive doses, it can be hepatotoxic, meaning it has the potential to cause liver damage, inflammation, and elevated liver enzymes, especially in sensitive individuals.

Yes, switching to Ceylon cinnamon is the safest way to enjoy daily cinnamon tea. It contains only trace amounts of coumarin, eliminating the primary risk associated with regular Cassia consumption.

Ceylon cinnamon sticks are lighter in color, soft, and have multiple thin, papery layers that form a tight roll. Cassia sticks are darker, harder, and consist of a single, thicker bark layer. Ground cinnamon is harder to differentiate, so checking the product label for 'Ceylon' is essential.

No, it is advised for pregnant and breastfeeding women to avoid regular or high doses of cinnamon tea. In some cases, excessive intake might stimulate uterine contractions. It's best to consult a healthcare provider before consumption.

Yes, cinnamon can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners (like warfarin) and diabetes medications. Consuming large amounts can enhance their effects. You should always consult a doctor if you are on regular medication.

Some studies suggest that cinnamon tea may help with weight management by improving insulin sensitivity and metabolism. However, it is not a standalone solution for weight loss and should be paired with a healthy diet and exercise.

Moderate consumption of cinnamon tea, particularly made with Ceylon, can offer various benefits including better blood sugar control, improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and improved digestion due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.