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ingestible · for blood sugar support

Ceylon Cinnamon

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

A 2024 updated systematic review and meta-analysis in Phytotherapy Research (Moridpour et al., PMID 37818728) of 24 RCTs in type 2 diabetes patients found cinnamon supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, HOMA-IR, and HbA1c compared to placebo.$8-$15 for a bag of Ceylon cinnamon; $15-$25 for a bottle of capsules.

How to use

Take 1-3 g (approximately 1/2 - 1 tsp) of Ceylon cinnamon powder daily, or 500-1000 mg Ceylon cinnamon extract capsules with meals. Use Ceylon (true) cinnamon, not Cassia cinnamon, to avoid high coumarin content. Add to oatmeal, yoghurt, or smoothies, or take in capsule form.

How it works

Cinnamon polyphenols (particularly type-A procyanidins) activate insulin receptor signalling pathways, improving insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake in cells. Cinnamaldehyde also inhibits intestinal alpha-glucosidase enzymes, slowing carbohydrate digestion and blunting post-meal glucose spikes.

Where to buy

Ceylon cinnamon powder: Frontier Co-op or Simply Organic at grocery stores. Capsules: NOW Foods Ceylon Cinnamon or Pure Encapsulations at Amazon or iHerb.

Typical cost: $8-$15 for a bag of Ceylon cinnamon; $15-$25 for a bottle of capsules.

Safety notes

Use Ceylon cinnamon only - Cassia cinnamon contains high coumarin which can cause liver damage at supplemental doses. May enhance the blood-sugar-lowering effect of diabetes medications, potentially causing hypoglycemia. Do not use as a replacement for prescribed medication. Avoid supplemental doses during pregnancy.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.