Cinnamon is a wonderful, aromatic and a versatile spice with many health benefits and medicinal properties. Its ability to manage, treat and heal various diseases and ailments makes it a 'super-food'. This spice is harvested from the bark of the trees, which are native to Southeast Asia, China and India. But this herb is not fit for everyone's consumption. People who are allergic to cinnamon must stay away from food preparations containing cinnamon. Such individuals may experience adverse health reactions after consuming or touching cinnamon.
Causes of Cinnamon Allergy
Spice allergies are hard to detect and they often go undiagnosed. Eating, smelling or even touching this spice can trigger an allergic response in sensitive individuals. Cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic alcohol are compounds present in cinnamon, which are responsible for its fragrance. Both of these compounds are responsible for allergic contact dermatitis in hypersensitive individuals. Cinnamaldehye is a more potent skin sensitizer than cinnamic alcohol. …show more content…
The body identifies cinnamaldehyde as an allergen and produces antibodies against it. The mast cells release 'histamine', a substance that triggers allergic response in the body.
Allergies are common among babies because they have a weak immune system. Exposure to cinnamon can cause an allergic reaction or skin irritation in babies. Such an allergy is usually topical in babies and allergic symptoms can appear within minutes after the skin is exposed to cinnamon.
Signs and Symptoms of Cinnamon Allergy
Symptoms are triggered when cinnamon is consumed or when it comes in direct contact with the skin. Smelling this aromatic herb can also cause symptoms.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
When cinnamon is eaten as a part of a food preparation, it can cause gastrointestinal symptoms,