VIDEO: LMS Warns Against Cinnamon Challenge

When principal Joseph Chella got word that students were talking about the Cinnamon Challenge, he mobilized his staff in order to warn students and parents about know how dangerous the fad is.

The challenge has been around for decades, according to school nurse Maryellen Grace, and dares people to ingest one tablespoon of cinnamon without water.

"A user will usually cough, choke, gag, vomit, cry and have severe discomfort," according to the school's website."It will burn the mouth and throat causing swelling and blocking airways…if cinnamon makes it to the lungs, it can cause acute respiratory failure."

The Challenge is particularly harmful for children with asthma.

Chella said he received phone calls from parents Thursday and on Friday, health teacher Sarah Bryden and nurse Maryellen Grace were going from class to class to tell students of the health risks. Chella also sent letters home directing parents and students to a link on the school's website, which contains more information.