Tag: Raw cinnamon

A 2021 study recommended limiting coumarin intake to 0.1 mg per kg of body weight, a key consideration for those asking, can we eat raw cinnamon daily. This sweet and aromatic spice is a staple in kitchens worldwide, but its safety for daily raw consumption varies dramatically depending on the specific type you are using.

Cinnamon has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, prized for its potent medicinal properties. Exploring the benefits of eating raw cinnamon sticks reveals a rich source of antioxidants and other compounds that may support overall wellness, though understanding safety precautions is crucial.

Over 90% of cinnamon sold in the US and Europe is the cheaper Cassia variety, which contains high levels of coumarin, a compound toxic to the liver in large doses. This fact is critical to understanding the risks of eating raw cinnamon sticks, an activity fraught with potential health hazards despite the spice's popularity.

Over one hundred calls were made to American poison control centers in the first three months of 2012 alone due to the viral 'cinnamon challenge'. While the stunt highlights the dangers, many are still unaware of the serious risks, including respiratory distress and liver toxicity, that occur when you eat raw cinnamon in large, dry quantities.

Studies have shown that cinnamon has some of the highest antioxidant levels among all spices, underscoring the benefits of eating raw cinnamon for human health. This aromatic bark contains powerful compounds that may assist with blood sugar management, combat inflammation, and support digestive wellness.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, cinnamon is likely safe when consumed in amounts typically used for food flavoring. However, concerns arise when people consume raw cinnamon in larger quantities, especially regarding the levels of coumarin in the more common Cassia variety.

While cinnamon is celebrated for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, consuming the spice uncooked—especially in large, dry quantities—presents notable health hazards. Understanding the differences between cinnamon types and best consumption practices is crucial before asking, "can you eat uncooked cinnamon?".