Spice Warning: Yes, it is possible to be allergic to cinnamon

We all know cinnamon to be that incredibly aromatic spice that accompanies several sweet and savoury foods, and also drinks like masala chai. Harvested from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees native to India, China, and Southeast Asia, this popular ingredient has been touted for its health benefits and medicinal properties. Despite this, it should be said that not everyone should ingest this spice.

Cinnamon allergy

There are people who are born with, or develop, high sensitivities to spices, including cinnamon, and may experience varying allergic reactions to the proteins in such spices. Those with such allergies have to be extremely careful as spices can be found in everything from fragrances to cosmetics to baked goods to breakfast cereals and even to sauces and unsuspecting dishes at a restaurant.

Allergy symptoms

Your symptoms could be triggered by anything from eating the spice to breathing it in, or even just coming into physical contact with it. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, though it is always best to avoid the spice regardless of how badly it triggers a reaction

Some symptoms include stomach pain, itching, hives, rashes, difficulty breathing, vomiting, dizziness, nausea and diarrhoea. In rare cases, the allergy may trigger an immediate anaphylactic reaction, which may be potentially fatal if not treated urgently.

What you can do

If you suspect you may be allergic to cinnamon, it’s a good idea to see an allergist to confirm your condition and to receive help in managing it. It’s good practice to always check labels carefully. Some headings such as “flavouring”, “mixed spice” or “fragrance” are extremely vague. When dining out at restaurants, make sure to let the staff know of your allergy.

When doing your own cooking, cinnamon can always be replaced with similar spices.

Angela Goh

Photo: Getty Images

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