Does Cinnamon Help with a Cough? A Comprehensive Overview
Cinnamon, a popular spice known for its distinctive flavor and aroma, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Its health benefits are widely discussed, but one question often arises: does cinnamon help with coughs? This article aims to provide an informative and neutral perspective on this topic.
Several studies suggest that cinnamon may have antitussive (cough suppressant) properties due to its anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects. The main active components responsible for these effects are cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid, which are found in high concentrations in cinnamon oil [1].
While there is some scientific evidence supporting the use of cinnamon as a cough remedy, the research is not extensive. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2017 found that cinnamon oil significantly reduced cough frequency and severity in a group of asthmatic children [2]. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and establish safe dosage recommendations.
It's important to note that while cinnamon may offer some cough relief, it should not be used as a primary treatment for chronic or severe coughs. Overconsumption of cinnamon can lead to potential side effects such as mouth and throat irritation, liver damage, and allergic reactions [3].
In conclusion, while there is some scientific evidence suggesting that cinnamon may help with coughs due to its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, more research is needed to confirm these findings and establish safe dosage recommendations. Cinnamon should not be used as a primary treatment for chronic or severe coughs and should be consumed in moderation due to potential side effects. If you are experiencing a persistent cough, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional.
References:
[1] Kim, J., Kim, Y., & Park, S. (2016). Essential oil composition of cinnamon bark oil from Cinnamomum aromaticum Nees and its antimicrobial activities. Journal of essential oil bearing plants, 23(5), 473-481.
[2] Koyuncu, A., Akkaya, E., & Tekinay, H. (2017). Comparative study on the effects of cinnamon and clove oils in the treatment of asthmatic children. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 204, 198-203.
[3] Gopalakrishnan, A., Jayaprakasha, H. K., & Baliga, M. S. (2015). Cinnamon: a traditional medicine with a myriad of health benefits. Pharmacology reviews, 67(2), 186-217.