Cinnamon Water for Health: Five Claims and the Evidence Caveats

Cinnamon is a spice known for its distinctive sweet-and-warm aroma and is commonly used as a natural flavoring. It has also long been featured in traditional herbal practices, where it is often consumed in various preparations, including boiled water.

The herb is frequently described as containing antioxidants and micronutrients such as carotenoids, as well as vitamins including $K$ and several $B$ vitamins. Some wellness content claims these components can be obtained by drinking cinnamon boiled water. Below are five benefits that are commonly cited—along with practical notes and cautions—when this drink is discussed in popular health media.

1. Helping control blood sugar

CNBC Indonesia has reported that regularly consuming cinnamon boiled water may help control blood sugar levels. The report suggests compounds in cinnamon can influence how the body processes carbohydrates, which in turn may affect blood glucose.

For people living with diabetes, cinnamon water is sometimes discussed as a complementary option to help reduce sharp spikes in blood sugar. However, it is important to note that it is not a substitute for prescribed medication, and anyone considering it—especially those already on glucose-lowering drugs—should follow medical advice to avoid unwanted interactions or hypoglycemia.

2. Supporting brain function

Regular intake of cinnamon preparations is also often linked to brain health. Some reports claim that cinnamon may support cognitive function, potentially improving attention and memory.

Cinnamon is widely recognized for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are commonly associated in general discussions with healthy aging. Popular wellness articles also speculate that these properties may help lower the risk of neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s in older adults, although such claims should be interpreted carefully because diet-based prevention evidence varies in strength.

3. Promoting healthier skin

NDTV has cited cinnamon’s antioxidant properties as one reason it is often associated with skin health. In lifestyle coverage, cinnamon drinks are sometimes said to help reduce acne and other skin-related complaints.

Preparation is typically described as simple: add 1–2 teaspoons of cinnamon powder or 2 cinnamon sticks (cut into smaller pieces) to water, bring it to a boil, then pour it into a glass and let it cool for 15–20 minutes before drinking.

4. Claims about fighting HIV

DetikJabar has reported claims that cinnamon boiled water may help fight HIV, citing a study described as suggesting cinnamon could be an effective treatment against the virus.

However, HIV is a serious infection that attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS if untreated. It is commonly associated with symptoms such as headaches, fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and skin rashes. Any suggestion that cinnamon—or any herbal drink—can “fight” or treat HIV should be treated with extreme caution, because standard HIV care relies on antiretroviral therapy under medical supervision, and claims of herbal efficacy require strong clinical evidence before they can be considered reliable.

5. Supporting oral and dental health

Another frequently mentioned benefit of drinking cinnamon boiled water is oral health. Cinnamon is often described as having antimicrobial properties that may help reduce the risk of tooth decay, and antifungal activity that may help lessen unpleasant breath.

As with other herbal drinks, moderation matters. Cinnamon boiled water is commonly suggested in lifestyle writing at around 1–2 glasses per day, though appropriate intake can differ depending on a person’s health status and should be discussed with a doctor, particularly for those who are pregnant, have liver conditions, or take long-term medications.

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