What Will Happen if I Drink Cinnamon Tea Every Day?

October 12, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a study comparing the antioxidant activity of 26 spices, cinnamon was only outranked by cloves and oregano, making it an antioxidant powerhouse. This potent spice can be consumed daily in the form of a warm, comforting tea. However, what will happen if I drink cinnamon tea every day depends heavily on the type of cinnamon used and the amount consumed.

Quick Summary

This article explores the daily consumption of cinnamon tea, detailing its numerous health benefits, potential risks, and the critical distinction between Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon to ensure safe intake. It offers guidance on how to make cinnamon tea and who should approach it with caution.

Key Points

Choose Ceylon Cinnamon: Always use Ceylon (or 'true') cinnamon for daily tea to avoid the high coumarin levels found in Cassia, which can cause liver damage.
Supports Blood Sugar: Regular consumption may help lower fasting blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, benefiting those with diabetes or prediabetes.
Boosts Heart Health: Cinnamon tea can help reduce LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure while increasing HDL cholesterol.
Acts as an Antioxidant: The high concentration of antioxidants in cinnamon tea helps combat oxidative stress and cellular damage caused by free radicals.
Reduce Inflammation: The anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamon may help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions, including menstrual cramps.
Mindful Consumption: Consuming cinnamon tea daily can be part of a healthy diet, provided the type and quantity are appropriate.
Consult a Doctor: Always consult a healthcare provider before adding daily cinnamon tea to your routine, especially if you have a liver condition, are pregnant, or take specific medications.

The Potential Perks of Daily Cinnamon Tea

Daily consumption of cinnamon tea, particularly when using the safer Ceylon variety, can offer a range of health benefits supported by research. These benefits stem from the high concentration of antioxidants, especially polyphenols, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.

Improved Blood Sugar Control

For individuals concerned about blood sugar, daily cinnamon tea may be beneficial. Cinnamon has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, meaning your body's cells can use insulin more effectively to shuttle glucose out of the bloodstream and into your cells for energy. This can help lower fasting blood sugar levels and potentially aid in the management of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. Cinnamon also slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract, which helps prevent blood sugar spikes after meals.

Enhanced Heart Health

Several studies suggest that daily cinnamon intake can support cardiovascular health. Cinnamon's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties work to reduce markers of inflammation, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. Additionally, research has shown that cinnamon can help lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing levels of beneficial HDL (good) cholesterol. Consistent consumption has also been linked to reduced blood pressure.

Reduced Inflammation and Antioxidant Power

As one of the spices highest in antioxidants, cinnamon tea is an excellent way to boost your body's defense against free radicals. These unstable molecules can cause cellular damage and contribute to the development of chronic diseases. The anti-inflammatory effects of cinnamon can also provide relief for inflammatory conditions like arthritis.

Aid for Menstrual Symptoms

For those who experience menstrual pain and PMS symptoms, cinnamon tea may offer a natural remedy. A study found that consuming cinnamon significantly reduced menstrual cramping, pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Potential Aid in Weight Management

Some research suggests a link between cinnamon and weight loss. The spice may aid metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity, which can help with healthy weight regulation. By slowing stomach emptying, cinnamon can also help you feel fuller for longer, which might reduce overall calorie intake.

The Critical Risks: The Coumarin Factor

While the benefits are promising, daily cinnamon tea comes with a significant risk, primarily tied to the type of cinnamon used. The risk is due to a natural chemical called coumarin, which can be hepatotoxic, or toxic to the liver, in large amounts.

Cassia vs. Ceylon Cinnamon: A Crucial Comparison


Feature	Cassia Cinnamon	Ceylon Cinnamon	Risk for Daily Consumption
Origin	Mainly from China and Indonesia.	Native to Sri Lanka.	Cassia carries significant risk due to its high coumarin levels.
Coumarin Content	High levels, often exceeding safe daily intake in just one teaspoon.	Very low, often negligible amounts.	Ceylon is considered safe for daily consumption.
Flavor	Strong, spicy, and less sweet.	Mild, sweet, with floral and citrus undertones.	N/A
Appearance	Thicker, harder bark with a single layer curl.	Thin, delicate layers that crumble easily.	N/A
Cost	More affordable and widely available in stores.	More expensive, often found in specialty shops.	N/A

Other Potential Side Effects

Beyond liver concerns, excessive intake of cinnamon, especially the Cassia variety, can cause other issues:

Digestive Discomfort: Large, prolonged doses can lead to stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea.
Allergic Reactions: Some people, particularly those sensitive to cinnamaldehyde, may develop mouth sores, skin irritation, or other allergic symptoms.
Hypoglycemia: For those with diabetes, consuming too much cinnamon, which can mimic insulin, could cause blood sugar levels to drop too low.
Drug Interactions: High doses can interfere with medications, especially those for diabetes, liver disease, or blood thinners.

Making Cinnamon Tea Safely

To enjoy the benefits of daily cinnamon tea without the risks, follow these guidelines:

Use Ceylon Cinnamon: Always opt for Ceylon cinnamon, or "true cinnamon," which contains very little coumarin. Look for "Cinnamomum verum" on the label.
Consult a Doctor: This is especially important if you have a pre-existing liver condition, are pregnant, or take medication for diabetes, heart disease, or blood clotting disorders.

Conclusion: Moderation and Awareness are Key

Drinking cinnamon tea every day can be a flavorful and healthy ritual, offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits that support blood sugar control and heart health. However, the crucial takeaway is to be mindful of the type of cinnamon you consume. Using Ceylon cinnamon in moderation is a safe way to reap the rewards, while overconsuming the more common Cassia variety poses a significant risk of liver damage due to its high coumarin content. By choosing wisely and adhering to guidelines, you can enjoy this ancient spice with confidence. For more information on managing chronic conditions, see reputable health resources like the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can, but only if you use Ceylon cinnamon, as it contains very low levels of coumarin. Daily consumption of Cassia cinnamon is not recommended due to its high coumarin content, which can be toxic to the liver over time.

Ceylon cinnamon is often called 'true cinnamon' and has a mild, delicate flavor with low coumarin levels. Cassia is the more common and cheaper variety, with a stronger, spicier flavor and significantly higher coumarin content, posing a risk for liver damage with high intake.

Prioritize using Ceylon cinnamon due to its low coumarin content. Be mindful of the amount you consume daily and consider any existing health conditions or medications you are taking.

Yes, especially with excessive intake. Cinnamon can interact with medications for diabetes, heart disease (including statins), and blood thinners. You should always consult with a doctor before incorporating daily cinnamon tea into your routine if you take any of these medications.

Some studies suggest that cinnamon may aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism and improving insulin sensitivity, which helps regulate healthy weight. It may also help suppress appetite.

Individuals with liver disease should be very cautious, especially with Cassia cinnamon. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid large, medicinal amounts. If you take blood-thinning medication or have diabetes, consult your doctor.

Potential issues from excessive intake, particularly of Cassia cinnamon, can include symptoms related to liver toxicity, digestive discomfort, allergic reactions, or interactions with certain medications.