Cinnamon has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for the management of various digestive complaints, including abdominal pain, bloating, and indigestion. In these traditions, cinnamon is believed to possess warming properties, promote circulation, and help dispel "cold" from the digestive tract, which is thought to be a common cause of stomach discomfort. In TCM, cinnamon bark ("Rou Gui") is often included in herbal formulas to alleviate abdominal pain, especially if it is associated with a sensation of coldness or cramping.

Scientifically, there is limited direct evidence from clinical trials to support the use of cinnamon specifically for general abdominal pain. Some small studies and animal models suggest that cinnamon may have antispasmodic, carminative, and anti-inflammatory effects on the gastrointestinal system, which could theoretically help alleviate certain types of abdominal discomfort, such as gas or mild spasms. However, high-quality, large-scale clinical trials examining cinnamon’s efficacy for abdominal pain in humans are lacking. Most research has focused on its effects on blood glucose, infections, or inflammation in general, rather than gastrointestinal pain specifically.

In summary, the use of cinnamon for abdominal pain is primarily justified by traditional usage rather than robust scientific validation. Its safety profile is generally favorable in culinary amounts, but concentrated supplements should be used with caution, especially in individuals with liver issues or those taking certain medications.