Is Cinnamon Safe for Dry Eyes? Coumarin Risks and Dosage

Concerns about coumarin content in cinnamon?

Because my body constitution is relatively cool, I often have cold hands and feet and experience vivid dreams while sleeping.
The doctor prescribed cinnamon, but when I took it for the first time, my eyes became very dry (I already have dry eye syndrome), which was quite uncomfortable, so I didn't finish the medication.
I reported this to the doctor.
Two weeks later, the doctor prescribed cinnamon again but mentioned a reduced dosage of 1.5 grams per day, stating that this amount is very small and encouraged me to try it again.

Dr.
Zhang, I would like to ask: (1) Is this dosage acceptable for someone with dry eye syndrome? (2) I found information online indicating that cinnamon contains coumarin, which should not be consumed in excess due to the risk of liver and kidney damage.
Is this dosage safe? Thank you!

Xiao Ke, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/17

Dr. Zhang Weidong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello, Xiao Ke.
Because you have dry eye syndrome, it is common to prescribe cooling and moistening herbs for you.
However, since you have cold hands and feet, it is essential to prescribe warming herbs to achieve balance.
As for the dosage, this cannot be answered online.
Cinnamon is a commonly used ingredient; if you observe closely, you will find it in your surroundings, even in braised food packets and coffee.
Unless in rare cases, it generally poses no problem.
I hope this answers your question! Dr.
Zhang Wei-Dong, Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/03/17

More Info

Cinnamon, particularly in its common form as a spice, is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts. However, when it comes to medicinal use, especially for individuals with specific health conditions like dry eyes, caution is warranted.
Firstly, regarding your experience with cinnamon and dry eyes, it is important to note that cinnamon can have various effects on the body, and individual responses can vary significantly. Some people may experience dryness or irritation, particularly if they have pre-existing conditions such as dry eye syndrome. This could be due to the body's inflammatory response or other biochemical interactions that cinnamon may provoke. The dosage you mentioned, 1.5 grams per day, is relatively low and is often considered safe for most individuals. However, if you have a history of dry eyes, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely when reintroducing cinnamon into your regimen.

Regarding coumarin, which is a compound found in cinnamon, it is true that excessive intake can pose health risks, particularly to the liver and kidneys. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established a tolerable daily intake (TDI) for coumarin at 0.1 mg per kg of body weight. The amount of coumarin in cinnamon can vary widely depending on the type of cinnamon used (Ceylon cinnamon contains much less coumarin compared to Cassia cinnamon). Therefore, if you are consuming cinnamon supplements or extracts, it is essential to be aware of their coumarin content and ensure that your total intake remains within safe limits.

In your case, if you are consuming 1.5 grams of cinnamon per day, it is advisable to check the specific type of cinnamon and its coumarin content. If it is Cassia cinnamon, you may want to limit your intake further or consider switching to Ceylon cinnamon, which is lower in coumarin. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions like dry eyes.

Additionally, if you experience increased dryness or discomfort in your eyes after taking cinnamon, it is essential to communicate this with your doctor. They may need to adjust your treatment plan or explore alternative options that do not exacerbate your dry eye symptoms.
In summary, while cinnamon can be safe in moderate amounts, individuals with dry eyes should approach its use cautiously. Monitoring your symptoms, understanding the type of cinnamon you are using, and being aware of coumarin levels are all critical steps in ensuring that your use of cinnamon does not negatively impact your eye health. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider to tailor your treatment to your specific needs and conditions.

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