Although it’s rare, it is possible to be allergic to cinnamon.
Symptoms can range from mild, such as a rash or hives, to life-threatening, as withanaphylaxis.
Verywell / Alexandra Shytsman
Where Does Cinnamon Come From?
Verywell / Alexandra Shytsman
Cinnamon spice is made fromCinnamomumtree bark.
Ceylon is considered purer and is native to Sri Lanka and India.
What Is a Cinnamon Allergy?
DermNet /CC BY-NC-ND
Sometimes,anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction, can occur from coming in contact with an allergen.
Anaphylaxis symptoms may include:
Anaphylaxis requires prompt treatment with anepinephrine peninjection and immediate medical attention.
After administering the injection, go to your nearest emergency room for medical help.
DermNet /CC BY-NC-ND
An allergy happens when your immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food or spice as harmful.
Your body then releasesantibodiesto destroy the allergen.
An intolerance may cause similar symptoms as an allergy but no antibodies are present.
it’s possible for you to still eat limited amounts of an allergen without an adverse reaction.
However, other non-life-threatening reactions can occur that still require a thorough evaluation.
Contact dermatitis usually results from the skin reacting to a substance.
Avoiding cinnamon and cinnamon-containing products is the best way to treat this rash.
Antihistamines may help with any itching, which is important to treat because itching may make the rash worse.
Stomatitis
Stomatitisis inflammation of the mouth or lips.
Symptoms include pain, burning, ulcers, and mucosal peeling, among others.
Most reported cases of stomatitis from cinnamon are from toothpaste and gum.
Diagnosing contact dermatitis or stomatitis is much different than diagnosing a food allergy.
Apatch testis the most helpful step if you have a rash that resembles a sunburn.
A patch test may also help detect what allergen could be causing your stomatitis.
A skin test involves pricking the skin with a sterile probe that contains a small amount of cinnamon extract.
Results usually come back within 15 to 30 minutes.
Your allergist may prescribe an epinephrine pen and provide instructions on how and when to use it.
Your allergist may also recommend an oral food challenge to confirm your test results.
It may help to keep a journal of foods or products that trigger symptoms.
Always read ingredient labels so you know what is in your food.
For example, a five-spice blend may contain cinnamon.
If you have contact dermatitis or stomatitis due to cinnamon, avoid topical products containing the spice.
This may be challenging, but your allergist can recommend an appropriate skincare routine for you.
Summary
Although rare, it’s possible to have a cinnamon allergy.
There is no cure for food allergies.
If you think you may be allergic, see an allergist.
Be sure to read the ingredients on product labels and ask about ingredients when eating at restaurants.
It may help to keep a journal to track what triggers a reaction.
Always carry an epinephrine auto-injector.
If you use it, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest emergency department.
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Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.Aphthous stomatitis (canker sores).
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology.Food allergy testing and diagnosis.
