Women often choose the option of abortion when they are not ready to become pregnant or when they think they are not prepared to receive a newborn in the world, financially, emotionally, or for any other reason. Though as a community, we seem to have moved much forward, yet there is still a hesitation in talking about a controversial and sensitive topic such as abortion. Instead of shushing about it, it needs to be talked about and discussed out in the open.
The Unavailability of Safe Abortion Options
While today, there are medical facilities that make the process of abortion safe and unproblematic, there are some areas where the option of abortion is neither available nor is it even taken into consideration. So instead of experimenting with unhygienic back alley options that might put your life and your health at risk, a myriad of natural products are available in your kitchen, which is rumored to cause natural miscarriage. This does not even raise suspicions and may not have a dire effect on your health either.
Introducing the Power Spice – Cinnamon
Among the numerous herbs and spices that your kitchen holds, cinnamon is one spice whose power and potential is severely underestimated. While you may look at this spice with astonishment, cinnamon can be used in multiple ways. Cinnamon is obtained from the bark of the tree species, genus Cinnamomum. This is used in several ways, sometimes to add flavor to different dishes, while other times, as an aromatic condiment for various cuisines.
The Many Uses of Cinnamon
Among the many uses of cinnamon, studies have been carried out on the use of cinnamon for a range of health conditions such as diabetes and cancer. However, cinnamon is also believed to cause natural abortion in women. Unfortunately, no research can attest or refute the truth behind this large claim. Then again, the available information points out towards a “said” large amount which may result in a natural miscarriage but there is no definition as to what would constitute a large amount.
Two Types of Cinnamon
Cinnamon has two types – Cassia Cinnamon and Ceylon Cinnamon. Cassia is “regular” cinnamon, which is a rich source of Coumarin while Ceylon is one of its species. Coumarin is an active element, which is found in large quantities in Cassia Cinnamon in comparison to the latter one.
Cassia Cinnamon – Its Benefits & Shortfalls
Though the Cassia Cinnamon has its share of health benefits, its excessive consumption can cause some serious health issues. Young girls and Non-expectant mothers can safely consume up to 2 grams per day. On the downside, too much of it results in breathing complications, escalates the risk of certain cancers, and even lead to liver damage.
How Much Cinnamon Can Safely Be Consumed?
This question is still open to interpretation as to how much cinnamon can safely be consumed in a sensitive state as pregnancy. Since each pregnancy is personalized, it depends on the condition of the fetus and the placenta; how much a growing fetus can tolerate since its system has limited potential or if the placenta can filter out any potentially toxic compound found in cinnamon.
Little to No Information Present
There is no clear answer as to the danger posed to the fetus by cinnamon during pregnancy. Since information is scant and no authentic research exists on the said subject but the internet seems to be full of answers. It has been noticed that only the medical website WebMD has specifically mentioned that pregnant or breastfeeding women should not consume cinnamon during pregnancy.
No Official Comment On the Safety of Consuming Cinnamon
Nonetheless, medical websites have not officially commented on the respective topic, hence it is best to take advice from your local OBN & Gynae regarding the usage of cinnamon during pregnancy. If the pregnancy is unwanted and no authentic resources are available for aborting the fetus, then these midwives’ anecdote may be used.
The Presence of Conflicting Information
A research paper published in BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology has listed Cassia Cinnamon as risky for it consists of substances like emmenagogue, which stimulates blood flow and can cause spontaneous miscarriage in the user. Another research study states that cinnamon is discouraged for pregnant women. However, no sufficient data is present to corroborate this info and it is considered to believe the rumored assumption that ingesting large amounts of cinnamon may produce abortifacient effects.
The Incompatibility of Cinnamon with Pregnancy
If you want to abort the fetus, then using cinnamon as a home-based remedy might be risky. While a light sprinkle here or a seasoning over there might not cause problems but eating foods that are heavily laden with the spice or taking its particular supplements is a big no because it does trigger uterine contractions. It’s also worth mentioning that cinnamon is often found in herbal medicines such as teas and supplements, so always check ingredients before you purchase anything that claims to be herbal and talk with your OBN & Gynae doctor if you plan on taking these.
Side Effects Of Large Amounts Of Cinnamon Consumption
While cinnamon is claimed to induce miscarriage in girls and women whose pregnancy is unwanted, eating cinnamon in large amounts is still not recommended. Overeating cinnamon-based foods can lead to liver infection and the toxicity can cause severe damage which might be irreparable. Increased consumption of cinnamon laden foods can cause lung, liver, and even kidney cancer. However, if you are taking medication for cardiovascular, liver disease, or diabetes, then cinnamon may interfere with their medications and amplify side effects.
In short, though cinnamon may offer a lot of benefits to your health medical practitioners and health experts recommend that it must always be consumed in small doses. If a pregnant woman wants to terminate her pregnancy, then it is highly advised not to use cinnamon because it can have some seriously dangerous after-effects and can affect the overall health of a person drastically.