Cinnamon oil abuse by adolescents

Reports in the literature about cinnamon oil toxicity are limited to allergic reactions and local irritant effects from dermatologic exposure. Cinnamon oil is easily obtained from pharmacies in 5-10 ml amounts for use as a flavoring agent and in craft items. Within a 5-mo period the Pittsburgh Poison Center (PPC) documented 32 cases of cinnamon oil abuse; all cases involved males aged 11-16 y and were reported to the PPC by school nurses. Sucking on toothpicks or fingers which had been dipped in cinnamon oil was the primary method of abuse. A rush or sensation of warmth, facial flushing, and oral burning were the experiences reported by the users. Some children complained of nausea or abdominal pain but no systemic effects were reported. Eight patients with dermal exposure had irritation ranging from erythema to welts, which resolved after thorough soap and water decontamination. Two ocular exposures resulted in mild irritation and were successfully treated with irrigation or dilution. The recent popularity of cinnamon oil abuse appears to be related to the ease with which it can be carried, engendering little fear of discovery or chastisement. Despite the relatively low toxicity of cinnamon oil, medical professionals should be aware of its potential for misuse.