Late Period: Can Cinnamon Tea Induce Menstruation?

Updated in February 2022
Scientifically proven

Many people stand by using cinnamon tea to induce a late period, however there is no scientific evidence that proves this.  

Studies carried out so far show that cinnamon tea specifically prepared with Cinnamomum zeylanicum, which is the most globally consumed type of cinnamon, is efficient in alleviating menstrual cramps and reducing menstrual flow. However, there is no evidence that it stimulates the uterine contractions necessary to initiate menstruation. 

As for adverse effects, what is known is that consuming cinnamon in significantly high doses can affect the liver negatively, especially especially if the cinnamon is consumed as an essential oil. Additionally, other types of cinnamon in the form of essential oils may lead to changes in the uterus and can even increase the risk for a miscarriage. However, this only happens when essential oils are consumed in unsafe amounts, and up to now, this effect has only been observed in animals.

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How cinnamon affects the menstrual cycle

Even though there is a popular belief that cinnamon tea helps to regulate a late period when taken regularly, there is no scientific evidence that demonstrates the real impact of cinnamon on the functioning of the menstrual cycle.

The only link that seems to exist between cinnamon and the menstrual cycle, according to some studies, is that cinnamon tea seems to help reduce menstrual discomfort. This is because it is capable of reducing prostaglandin levels, increasing endorphin levels, and improving blood circulation. Therefore, it is effective in relieving PMT symptoms, especially menstrual cramps. 

Additionally, it was observed that consuming the right quantity of cinnamon tea (as recommended by a herbal practitioner or naturopath) has a relaxing effect and decreases uterine contractions in those with dysmenorrhea and it prevents contractions during pregnancy. It also helps decrease menstrual flow in women who have heavy periods.

Can I take cinnamon tea while pregnant?

Thus far, there are no studies to confirm whether cinnamon tea made with Cinnamomum zeylanicum causes side effects in pregnant women.  However, when the tea is made with Cinnamomum camphora, it may cause bleeding and changes to the uterus. Additionally, in a study carried out on mice, it was observed that cinnamon essential oil can increase risk for miscarriages. However, the effect on mice may not be the same as on people, so further studies are needed in order to prove that cinnamon essential oil really can cause miscarriages in humans.

Due to the fact that there are no scientific studies that indicate the possible consequences of the consumption of cinnamon tea in pregnancy, the recommendation is that pregnant women avoid any consumption of cinnamon tea to prevent complications. 

How to make cinnamon tea

Cinnamon tea is easy and quick to prepare and it is great for improving digestion and general well-being. It can also decrease fatigue. In order to prepare the tea you need: 

Ingredients

  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 cup of water

How to prepare the tea

Place the cinnamon stick in a pot with water and let it boil for five minutes. After this, leave it to cool down, take the cinnamon out and drink the mixture. If you wish, you can sweeten the tea to your liking.

Even though there is no scientific evidence to support that cinnamon can stimulate the onset of menstruation, it is still commonly used  for that purpose. However, if you would like to induce menstruation, you can take teas that are proven to encourage changes in the uterus and that can speed up menstruation, such as ginger tea.