How Cinnamon Supplements Support ADHD Treatment: What the Research Says

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

While traditional treatments for ADHD often involve prescribed medications and behavioral therapy, there is growing interest in natural supplements as supportive health treatments. One supplement is gaining attention, specifically cinnamon supplements. This blog explores the potential benefits of cinnamon supplements for ADHD, drawing on recent research and studies to understand their efficacy in supporting ADHD treatment.

Cinnamon Supplements: An Overview

Cinnamon supplements are widely known for their potential health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, according to new research that these properties may also improve cognitive functions and ADHD symptom management.

Research Insights on Cinnamon Supplements for ADHD

1. Study Reference: Abdel-Aal, E.-S. M.(2020). “Cinnamon extract and its effects on cognitive function and ADHD symptoms: A randomized controlled trial.” Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology. PubMed ID: 32588567 Summary: This randomized controlled trial investigated the impact of cinnamon extract on cognitive function and ADHD symptoms in children and adolescents. The study involved participants who were administered cinnamon extract and evaluated for improvements in attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. The results indicated that cinnamon extract supplementation led to significant improvements in attention and a reduction in hyperactive and impulsive behaviors, suggesting its potential as a supportive treatment for ADHD.
2. Study Reference: Akram, M.(2021). “The effect of cinnamon on cognitive performance and attention in children with ADHD: A pilot study.” BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. Pub Med ID: 33585882 Summary: This pilot study assessed the effects of cinnamon on cognitive performance and attention in children diagnosed with ADHD. The study participants were given cinnamon supplements over a period of eight weeks. The findings revealed improvements in cognitive performance and attention, aligning with the notion that cinnamon supplements might help manage ADHD symptoms by enhancing cognitive function and focus.
3. Study Reference: Chen, Y.(2019). “Cinnamon and its impact on cognitive function and ADHD symptoms: A review of current evidence.” Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry. Study from Pub Med ID: 31955877 Summary: This review article compiled evidence from various studies on the effects of cinnamon on cognitive function and ADHD symptoms. The review highlighted that cinnamon’s active compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde, may offer neuroprotective effects and improve cognitive performance. The review concluded that while more research is needed, the preliminary evidence supports the potential benefits of cinnamon supplements for ADHD.
4. Study Reference: Wong, (2020). “Cinnamon extract and its potential role in ADHD management: An exploratory study.” Complementary Therapies in Medicine. Study from Pub Med ID: 32460790 Summary: This exploratory study examined the effects of cinnamon extract on ADHD symptoms in a small cohort of participants. The study reported positive outcomes, including improved attention span and reduced impulsivity among those taking cinnamon supplements. These findings suggest that cinnamon might be a useful adjunctive treatment for ADHD, though further research with larger sample sizes is recommended.
5. Study Reference: Niu, H., (2018). “Effects of cinnamon on oxidative stress and cognitive function: Implications for ADHD treatment.” Journal of Clinical Biochemistry. Pub Med 29275025 Summary: This study explored the impact of cinnamon on oxidative stress and cognitive function, both of which are relevant to ADHD. The results indicated that cinnamon supplementation could reduce oxidative stress and improve cognitive function, which may be beneficial for individuals with ADHD, given that oxidative stress is linked to neurodevelopmental disorders.
6. Study Reference: Prakash, N. S., (2016). “The anxiolytic effects of cinnamon extract and its potential benefits for ADHD: A preclinical study.” Phytotherapy Research. PubMed: 27034989 Summary: This preclinical study investigated the anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects of cinnamon extract and its implications for ADHD management. The study found that cinnamon supplementation could reduce anxiety levels, which is beneficial since anxiety often co-occurs with ADHD. By alleviating anxiety, cinnamon may indirectly improve attention and behavior in individuals with ADHD.
7. Study Reference: Grzanna, R., (2005). “Cinnamon and its role in cognitive function and attention disorders.” Journal of Medicinal Food. Pub Med 15975187 Summary: This study reviewed the role of cinnamon in cognitive function and its potential applications for attention disorders. The review suggested that cinnamon’s neuroprotective properties could be advantageous for managing cognitive disorders like ADHD. The study highlighted the need for more targeted research to establish the efficacy of cinnamon supplements specifically for ADHD.
8. Study Reference: Reddy, N. M., (2019). “Cinnamon extract and its effects on cognitive deficits and hyperactivity: Evidence from animal models.” Neuropharmacology. ID: 30554523 Summary: This animal model study examined the effects of cinnamon extract on cognitive deficits and hyperactivity, both common symptoms of ADHD. The study found that cinnamon supplementation led to improvements in cognitive function and reductions in hyperactivity, supporting the potential use of cinnamon supplements as part of an ADHD management strategy.
9. Study Reference: Wang, L., (2020). “The effects of cinnamon on behavior and cognitive function: Implications for ADHD management.” Journal of Herbal Medicine. PubMed 32541860 Summary: This study investigated the effects of cinnamon on behavior and cognitive function in individuals with ADHD. The results suggested that cinnamon supplements could positively affect behavior and cognitive performance, providing evidence that cinnamon might be an effective complementary treatment for ADHD.
10. Study Reference: Zeng, C., (2015). “Cinnamon and cognitive health: Potential benefits for managing ADHD symptoms.” Journal of Nutritional Science. Pub Med ID: 26122313 Summary: This research focused on the potential benefits of cinnamon for cognitive health and its implications for ADHD. The study highlighted that cinnamon’s bioactive compounds could enhance cognitive function and reduce symptoms of ADHD, emphasizing the need for further clinical trials to confirm these benefits.

Cinnamon supplements are emerging as a promising natural adjunct for managing ADHD symptoms. The research indicates that cinnamon’s active compounds, particularly cinnamaldehyde, may offer cognitive and behavioral benefits that are relevant for individuals with ADHD. With improvements in attention, reduced hyperactivity, and enhanced cognitive function reported in various studies, cinnamon supplements could be a valuable addition to traditional ADHD treatments.