Canella winterana

The plant Canella winterana, also known as Wild Cinnamon Bark or White Cinnamon, belongs to the family of the Canellaceae and is native to the Caribbean as well as to southern Florida. It grows as an evergreen tree or shrub and can reach a height of up to 10 meters. Its aromatic bark and leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and as a spice.

What benefits does Canella winterana bring?

Canella winterana is used in traditional medicine for various purposes; the body of studies on the plant, however, is anything but meaningful, which is why hardly any verifiable statements can be made about Canella winterana. For this reason only the traditional applications are listed below. These are of course to be questioned critically, and we are in no way speaking here of scientifically produced results.

  • Promotion of digestion: The plant is said to possess stomach-strengthening properties and is traditionally used for stimulating digestion and relieving flatulence.
  • Antimicrobial action: Canella winterana has the reputation of possessing antibacterial and antifungal properties.

How does Canella winterana work?

The medicinal effect of Canella winterana is presumably attributable to several bioactive constituents. Here, too, considerably more research is necessary in order to determine the individual active substances more precisely. It can be assumed, however, that Canella winterana contains cannelin and various essential oils (1).

Side effects and risks

Despite the many positive properties, a few precautionary measures should be observed:

  • Stomach irritations: A high dosage can cause stomach complaints or heartburn.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Because of the potential effect on the hormone system, application during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be avoided.
  • Allergic reactions: In sensitive people, skin irritations or allergic reactions can occur.

Conclusion

Canella winterana is a versatile medicinal plant with a range of potentially health-promoting properties. Its application in naturopathy is documented considerably better than in science, which is why verified effects can hardly be spoken of. Within naturopathy and traditional medicine as well, Canella winterana should be used exclusively in an appropriate dosage, in consultation with a physician and with due care, especially in the case of sensitive people or during pregnancy.

Sources:

  1. Abaul, J., Udino, L., Bourgeois, P., & Bessière, J. M. (1995). Composition of the Essential Oils of Canella winterana (L.) Gaertn. Journal of Essential Oil Research, 7(6), 681–683. https://doi.org/10.1080/10412905.1995.9700530
  2. Oliveira, J., Lima, R., Marques, E., & Gavilanes, M. (2019). Phytochemical aspects and biological activities of essential oil of species of the family Canellaceae: A review. Plant Science Today, 6(3), 315. https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.2019.6.3.585