​Cinnamomum cassia (Chinese Cassia)

Cinnamomum cassia (Chinese Cassia)

Product Name: Корица китайская, Cinnamomum cassia, Chinesischer Zimt, Canela china, Cannelle de Chine, قرفة صينية, อบเชยจีน, Xitoy dolchinsi, Кытай корицасы, Çin darçını, Дорчинхои Хитоӣ, Kinų cinamonas, Ķīnas kanēlis, Китайська кориця, קינמון סיני

Synonyms: Кассия, Китайская корица, Ложная корица, Chinese cassia, False cinnamon, Zimtkassie, Cassia china, Cannelle casse, القرفة الكاذبة, อบเชยเทศ,

Parts Used: bark, leaves, buds, fruits, branches, flowers, seeds, essential oil.

Main Indications for Use of Cinnamomum cassia: Neuroinflammation, subcortical encephalitis, hyperkinesias, dyskinesia, Parkinson's disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, irritable bowel syndrome, flatulence, functional diarrhea, chronic gastritis with reduced secretion, candidiasis of the oral cavity and intestines, urogenital candidiasis, bronchitis, pharyngitis, cystitis, impotence, hypolibidemia, secondary amenorrhea, primary dysmenorrhea.

Use of Cinnamomum cassia in Mixtures and Complexes: Subcortical encephalitis with hyperkinesias, post-encephalitic syndrome, systemic fungal infection, autoimmune enteropathies, acute intestinal infections with diarrheal syndrome, chronic smoker's bronchitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, parainfluenza, neurovegetative disorders, vascular dementia.

Pharmacological Properties of Cinnamomum cassia: anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, carminative, immunomodulatory, spasmolytic, adaptogenic, stimulating digestion, hypolipidemic, reparative, nootropic, inhibiting MAO-B, antiangiogenic, thermogenic, anxiolytic, cardiotonic.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Cinnamomum cassia

Powder — Cinnamomum cassia

Indications (Powder): Neuroinflammation, subcortical encephalitis, hyperkinesias, Parkinson's disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, flatulence, functional diarrhea, oral candidiasis, chronic gastritis with reduced secretion.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 0.5–1 g of powder twice daily, 20 minutes before meals, washed down with warm water. Course duration — 30 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 1.5 g twice daily for subcortical encephalitis, hyperkinesias, candidal enteritis, and Parkinson's disease. Course — 45 days under specialist supervision.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): No more than 3 g per day. Used for acute oral candidiasis, pronounced hyperglycemia, and severe hypersalivation against the background of encephalitis.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.3 g per day in the first half of the day. Suitable for patients with chronic gastritis, mild neurovegetative dysfunction, and chronic candidiasis. Course — 20 days, repeated once every 3 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): From 6 years of age, with body weight from 25 kg: 0.1–0.25 g once daily. Only as prescribed by a physician. Not recommended for girls under 12 years of age with an unstable menstrual background.

Contraindications (Powder): Gastric ulcer, pronounced hypersensitivity to cinnamic aldehydes, acute hepatitis. Data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 6 years of age have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Powder): In case of overdose: burning in the stomach, headache, dry mouth, tachycardia. Registered under conditions of using powder at a dose above 4 g.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): Patients up to 60 kg: reduce the dose by 25%. Patients over 90 kg: increase the dose by 25%, but do not exceed the maximum dosage.

Preparation Method (Powder): To obtain 100 g of powder, take 120 g of dry Cinnamomum cassia bark, dried at a temperature of 40–45 °C for 48 hours. Grind in a mortar or mill to a powder state. Sift through a 0.2 mm sieve. Package in an airtight glass jar.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in a tightly closed glass container, in a dry, cool place at a temperature of +5 to +20 °C. Avoid exposure to light, store away from electromagnetic fields. Shelf life — up to 18 months. After opening the package — use within 60 days.

Dry Extract — Cinnamomum cassia

Indications (Dry Extract): Type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, intestinal candidiasis, neuroinflammation, dyskinesia, gastritis with reduced acidity.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 150–300 mg 1–2 times a day, 30 minutes before meals. Recommended in courses of 3 weeks with a 10-day break.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): Up to 500 mg twice daily for pronounced hyperglycemia, neurodegenerative disorders, and candidal colitis. Intake strictly under specialist supervision.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): 1 g per day. Only under conditions of controlled therapy for systemic fungal lesions and severe forms of metabolic syndrome.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 150 mg once daily in the morning, for 14 days. Suitable for chronic gastritis, insulin resistance, and a tendency to fungal infections in persons over 40 years of age.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): From 8 years of age, with body weight from 30 kg — no more than 100 mg once daily. Only under specialist supervision.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Severe forms of hypotension, active tuberculosis, pronounced allergic reactions. Data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 8 years of age have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): Rarely — nausea, dizziness, increased salivation, temporary insomnia. Occur when the daily dosage exceeds 1.5 g.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): Up to 60 kg — reduce the dose by 20%; over 90 kg — increase by 20%, but do not exceed 1 g per day.

Preparation Method (Dry Extract): Take 500 g of crushed dry Cinnamomum cassia bark, pour 2000 ml of water, and boil for 30 minutes. Infuse for 8 hours and filter. Evaporate to a residual mass of 100 g at a temperature not exceeding 50 °C. Dry to a powder-like state in a drying chamber. Package in an airtight jar.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store at a temperature of +4 to +20 °C, in a dark place protected from moisture and electromagnetic fields. Shelf life — 2 years. After opening the package — use within 30 days.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Cinnamomum cassia

Indications (Tincture): Oral candidiasis, hyperglycemia, neuroinflammation, chronic bronchitis, cystitis, functional diarrhea, Parkinson's disease.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 20 drops (approximately 1 ml) twice daily, diluted in 50 ml of warm water, 15–20 minutes before meals. Course — 21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 30 drops 3 times a day for neurodegenerative diseases, hyperkinesias, generalized candidiasis, and persistent flatulence. Course — 28 days.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): Up to 1.5 ml 3 times a day. Used for pronounced intestinal spasm and severe hyperglycemia. No more than 14 consecutive days.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10 drops once daily in the morning for 10 days. Recommended for chronic candidiasis, mild hyperglycemia, and spring immunosuppression. Repeat every 2 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): From 10 years — 5 drops once daily in dilution. Only under pediatrician supervision. Not prescribed for children with body weight less than 25 kg.

Contraindications (Tincture): Chronic alcoholic hepatitis, epilepsy, pregnancy. Data on contraindications during lactation and in early childhood are absent in the clinical literature.

Side Effects (Tincture): Irritation of the gastric mucosa, increased heart rate, headache, and possible mild insomnia when used in the second half of the day.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): Up to 60 kg — reduce the dose by 25%; over 90 kg — increase the dose by 25%, while not exceeding 90 drops per day.

Preparation Method (Tincture): Take 100 g of crushed Cinnamomum cassia bark and pour 400 ml of 70% ethyl alcohol. Infuse in a hermetically sealed dark glass vessel for 14 days at room temperature, shaking daily. Strain through a dense cloth or paper filter. Store in a glass container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in a cool, light- and EMI-protected place, at a temperature of +5…+18 °C. Shelf life — 3 years. After opening, use within 60 days.

Oil Infusion — Cinnamomum cassia

Indications (Oil Infusion): Skin candidiasis, fungal nail lesions, contact dermatitis, herpetic stomatitis, neuroinflammation when rubbed into the occipital region, arthralgia in Parkinson's disease.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Externally — 2–3 drops applied to the affected area twice daily. Rub into the skin zones behind the ears and temples for neuroinflammation. Course — 14–21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): 5 drops 3 times a day externally, for foot candidiasis, pronounced arthralgia, and herpetic skin lesions. Course — up to 30 days.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Up to 15 drops per day for severe mycoses and neuropathic pain. Do not use for more than 30 consecutive days.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): 1 drop on the area behind the ear, daily in the morning, for 10 consecutive days. Used for a tendency to neuroinflammation, fungal eruptions, and chronic dermatitis. Repeat course after 2 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): From 6 years — 1 drop in a mixture with coconut oil, only externally, no more than once daily. Do not use on mucous membranes. Do not prescribe for body weight below 20 kg.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Allergic skin reactions, eczema, psoriasis in the exacerbation stage, pregnancy. Data on use during lactation and in children under 6 years of age — none.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): In case of overdose — burning, redness, dermatitis, in rare cases — contact eczema. Registered in clinical practice at concentrations above 20%.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): For weight less than 50 kg, use in a 1:3 dilution with coconut oil. For weight over 80 kg, it is possible to use without dilution, but no more than 15 drops per day.

Preparation Method (Oil Infusion): Pour 100 g of crushed dry Cinnamomum cassia bark with 400 ml of coconut oil (unrefined), keep in a water bath at a temperature of 45–50 °C for 4 hours. Cool and strain through cloth. Pour into glass containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in an airtight glass bottle, in a dark place, at a temperature of +5 to +20 °C. Protect from EMI and sunlight. Shelf life — 12 months. After opening, use within 45 days.

Ointment — Cinnamomum cassia

Indications (Ointment): Skin candidiasis, mycoses of the feet and fingers, contact dermatitis, herpetic eruptions, localized neuroinflammatory pain syndrome, arthralgia in Parkinson's disease.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply in a thin layer to the affected skin area twice daily. Do not rub in. Course — 10–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Apply 3 times a day for pronounced skin candidiasis, herpetic stomatitis (on the external area of the lips), dermatomycosis, and local neuropathy. Course — up to 21 days.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Up to 4 applications per day, locally, on no more than 5% of body surface. Used for persistent fungal skin lesions, neurodermatitis, and skin hyperkinesis against the background of subcortical disorders.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Apply once daily for 7 days to the skin of the feet, interdigital spaces, and areas of increased sweating. Recommended for individuals with chronic candidiasis, type 2 diabetes, and athletes.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): From 6 years — apply once daily to limited skin areas (up to 2×2 cm), only in a 1:5 dilution with a neutral ointment base. Only externally.

Contraindications (Ointment): Open wounds, purulent inflammations, weeping eczema, individual intolerance. Data on use during pregnancy, lactation, and in early childhood — none.

Side Effects (Ointment): Registered: contact allergy, itching, peeling, short-term redness. Occur with prolonged use or when the concentration is exceeded.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ointment): Up to 60 kg — use in a 1:2 dilution with the base; over 90 kg — full concentration is permissible, but no more than twice daily.

Preparation Method (Ointment): Take 5 g of dry Cinnamomum cassia powder, 15 g of cinnamon oil infusion, and 80 g of ointment base (lanolin + coconut oil in equal parts). Heat the base to 40 °C, add the powder and infusion, and stir thoroughly until homogeneous. Cool at room temperature. Place into glass jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a hermetically closed glass container at a temperature of +5 to +18 °C, in a dark place, away from EMI. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening — use within 30 days.

Cream — Cinnamomum cassia

Indications (Cream): Skin mycoses, seborrheic dermatitis, mild form of candidiasis, acne, skin itching of neurogenic origin, herpetic eruptions on the face.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Apply to cleansed skin twice daily — morning and evening. Distribute with light movements over the lesion. Course — 10–15 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): 3 times a day, for exacerbation of seborrheic dermatitis, fungal rash, and neurodermatitis. Maximum course — 21 days.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Up to 4 applications per day, on limited areas. Only in cases of severe inflammatory and fungal skin diseases.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Once daily on the skin of the face or interdigital zones, especially during humid climates or after the pool. Course — 7–10 days. Repeat once every 2 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): From 7 years — no more than once daily, on intact skin, at a concentration not exceeding 1%. Only as prescribed by a dermatologist.

Contraindications (Cream): Pustular skin diseases, rosacea, eczema in the exacerbation stage. Data on use during pregnancy and in infants — none.

Side Effects (Cream): Local irritation, increased itching, rare allergic reaction. Usually when the permissible number of applications is exceeded.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cream): For patients up to 60 kg — apply a smaller volume (a pea-sized amount); for patients with body weight over 90 kg — it is permissible to apply up to 2 times a larger volume.

Preparation Method (Cream): 10 g of Cinnamomum cassia oil infusion, 1 g of cinnamon powder, 89 g of cream base (coconut oil, distilled water, beeswax, glycerin). Mix the components in a water bath at a temperature of 45 °C, cool with constant stirring. Pour into glass jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store in a dark, cool place, at a temperature of +4 to +10 °C. Avoid temperature fluctuations and direct light. After opening, use within 30 days. Total shelf life — 6 months.

Serum — Cinnamomum cassia

Indications (Serum): Fungal dermatitis, neurodermatitis, seborrheic itching, localized hyperemia in neuroinflammation, skin candidiasis of the face, herpetic eruptions in the perioral zone.

Standard Dosage (Serum): 2–3 drops on the affected skin area 1–2 times a day, apply with light movements until completely absorbed. Course — 10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Serum): 4–5 drops 2–3 times a day for pronounced skin candidiasis, herpetic eruptions on the face, and chronic neurodermatitis. Course — up to 15 days.

Maximum Dosage (Serum): Up to 6 drops 3 times a day. Short-term use (up to 7 days) is permissible for acute mycosis and herpetic rash in the perioral area.

Preventive Dosage (Serum): 1–2 drops once daily in the area of the forehead and temples — for chronic neuroinflammation and vegetative instability. Course — 5 days monthly.

Pediatric Dosage (Serum): From 8 years — 1 drop in a mixture with coconut oil (1:3), no more than once daily. Only on limited skin areas. Do not use on mucous membranes.

Contraindications (Serum): Acute exudative dermatitis, individual sensitivity to cinnamic aldehydes. Data on use during pregnancy, lactation, and in early childhood — none.

Side Effects (Serum): Skin irritation, tingling, increased itching. Occur when the recommended dosage is exceeded or when used on inflamed skin.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Serum): Up to 50 kg — use only in a 1:3 dilution with coconut oil. Over 80 kg — the standard dosage is permissible, but no more than 6 drops per single application.

Preparation Method (Serum): For 100 g: 10 g of Cinnamomum cassia oil infusion, 1 g of cinnamon powder, 40 g of lavender hydrolate, 48 g of aloe vera gel, 1 g of preservative substance (natural plant preservative based on sorbic acid). Mix the components thoroughly at a temperature not exceeding 35 °C, package in glass bottles with a pipette.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Serum): Store at a temperature of +4 to +10 °C in a light-protected place. After opening, use within 21 days. Total shelf life — 3 months under proper conditions.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Cinnamomum cassia

Chinese cinnamon has moderate toxicity with systemic use, which is due to the content of coumarin and cinnamic aldehyde. Coumarin in high doses exhibits a hepatotoxic effect, especially with prolonged use or in individuals with CYP2A6 polymorphism (the enzyme of coumarin metabolism).

The LD50 study (lethal dose for 50% of the population) of the aqueous extract of Cinnamomum cassia in laboratory mice showed the following values:

- orally for mice: LD50 ≈ 2,610 mg/kg body weight
- intramuscularly for mice: LD50 ≈ 730 mg/kg body weight

Oil forms and essential oils of Cinnamomum cassia have a more pronounced irritating potential and can cause dermatitis or chemical burns when applied to mucous membranes or under conditions of prolonged contact with the skin.

Particular caution should be exercised when using in individuals with impaired liver function, in children under 6 years of age, as well as in combination therapy with hepatotoxic preparations.

According to the recommendations of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the safe daily intake level of coumarin is 0.1 mg/kg body weight.

References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/...
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...

Pharmacodynamics — Cinnamomum cassia

The pharmacodynamic action of Cinnamomum cassia is due to a complex of biologically active compounds, including phenylpropanoids (mainly cinnamic aldehyde), coumarins, terpenoids, flavonoids, tannins, and organic acids. These components interact with many receptor and enzyme systems in the body, realizing a multi-level physiological effect.

One of the most studied effects is anti-inflammatory action, realized predominantly through inhibition of the enzymes cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX), which leads to a decrease in the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes. In addition, cinnamic aldehyde is capable of suppressing the expression of the transcription factor NF-κB, associated with the regulation of inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Thus, the active substances of Cinnamomum cassia modulate the inflammatory cascade at the molecular level, exerting a predominantly systemic effect.

The nervous system is also a pharmacological target. In vivo and in vitro studies demonstrate a modulating effect on neurotransmitter systems, in particular GABAergic and dopaminergic. A decrease in the neuroinflammatory response and attenuation of lipid peroxidation in brain structures under the influence of Cinnamomum cassia extracts has been noted. These effects are accompanied by a decrease in the activity of microglia and astrocytes, which indicates participation in neuroprotective mechanisms. The presumed targets also include TRPA1 and TRPV1 receptors associated with the modulation of nociceptive and vegetative responses.

At the level of the immune system, moderate immunostimulating and immunosuppressive effects are observed depending on the dose and duration of exposure. Some studies report an increase in the phagocytic activity of macrophages, normalization of the Th1/Th2 response ratio, and a decrease in the expression of Toll-like receptors on cells of innate immunity. The biochemical components of the taxon exhibit antioxidant properties, blocking excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increasing the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase.

On the part of the digestive system, a spasmolytic and carminative effect is observed, mediated by relaxation of smooth muscle through suppression of calcium channels and a decrease in the level of prostaglandins. Locally, regulation of the microbiota is possible, especially with the use of oil and alcohol forms, which is explained by pronounced antimicrobial activity against yeast-like fungi and pathogenic bacteria.

Skin receptors are also susceptible to the action of volatile and oil components of Cinnamomum cassia, which can be used in transdermal or local therapy to achieve antifungal, antiseptic, and vascular-active effects. Local stimulation of microcirculation and a decrease in peripheral edema are also registered.

Thus, the pharmacodynamics of Cinnamomum cassia is realized at the systemic and local levels with the involvement of the nervous, immune, endocrine, skin, and gastrointestinal systems. The main effects include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuromodulatory, spasmolytic, antimicrobial, and immunocorrective action. Receptor and enzyme targets include NF-κB, COX-2, TRPA1, TRPV1, γ-aminobutyric acid receptors, and Toll-like receptors.

References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874112006872
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Pharmacokinetics — Cinnamomum cassia

The pharmacokinetic characteristics of Cinnamomum cassia largely depend on the route of administration and the physicochemical form. With oral administration (in the form of powder, infusion, or extract), the absorption of active compounds such as cinnamic aldehyde and coumarin begins in the stomach and continues in the upper parts of the small intestine. Lipophilic components (aldehydes, essential oils) demonstrate a higher absorption rate in the presence of fats, which is important when using oil tinctures and infusions.

After absorption, the active components are distributed in the systemic bloodstream and penetrate the blood-brain barrier, which explains the central neuromodulatory effect with chronic administration. Partially, the substances bind to plasma proteins, predominantly albumins, and can accumulate in adipose tissue, skin, and liver. With transdermal or local application (in the form of ointments, creams, serums), the penetration of components is limited by the stratum corneum of the epidermis, but can be enhanced under conditions of inflammation or when using a fatty base, such as coconut oil. These forms provide local action with minimal systemic distribution.

The main route of metabolism of Cinnamomum cassia compounds is hepatic. Coumarin and aldehyde derivatives are transformed with the participation of cytochrome P450 enzymes, especially the CYP2A6 and CYP3A4 isoforms. Metabolism is accompanied by the formation of hydroxylated and glucuronidated metabolites, which are less toxic and more easily eliminated from the body.

Excretion is carried out predominantly by the kidneys — in the form of soluble metabolites, partially with bile. A small amount of volatile components can be excreted through the lungs, especially after the use of essential oils or alcohol tinctures. Skin excretion (by sweat glands) is also possible, especially with local application.

Active components can interact with intestinal microflora, especially with chronic use. Some bacteria are capable of metabolizing cinnamic aldehyde with the formation of less active derivatives, which affects bioavailability during a long course.

Thus, the pharmacokinetics of Cinnamomum cassia is determined by the high lipophilicity of some components, hepatic metabolism, multi-organ distribution, and a multimodal route of excretion. The features depend on the dosage form and route of administration (oral, transdermal, or local), as well as on the state of the patient's enzyme systems.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0278691512002874
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Cinnamomum cassia

The pharmacological activity of Cinnamomum cassia is due to the interaction of its bioactive components with a number of molecular targets, including enzyme systems, receptors, inflammatory mediators, and signaling cascades. The main functional component is cinnamic aldehyde, accompanied by flavonoids, terpenoid compounds, and coumarins. Together they realize anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuromodulatory, and antimicrobial action.

One of the key mechanisms is the suppression of the transcription factor NF-κB, which leads to a decrease in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. In parallel, inhibition of the enzymes cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX) occurs, which reduces the biosynthesis of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids. This is accompanied by suppression of macrophage and neutrophil activation, as well as a decrease in nitric oxide production due to inhibition of iNOS.

Cinnamic aldehyde also acts on ion channels and receptors, including TRPA1 and TRPV1, which determines nociceptive and vascular activity. These receptors participate in sensory transmission of pain signals, thermoregulation, and vascular tone. In a number of studies, it has been established that modulation of TRP receptors is accompanied by a decrease in neuroinflammatory activity and an increase in the pain threshold.

The antioxidant potential of Cinnamomum cassia is manifested in the ability of components to reduce the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), stabilize membranes, and increase the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase. The ability of components to inhibit lipid peroxidation in the tissues of the liver, brain, and vascular wall is noted. A decrease in the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) as one of the key markers of oxidative stress has also been demonstrated.

At the level of immune regulation, the participation of Cinnamomum cassia compounds in the modulation of Toll-like receptors (TLR), especially TLR-4, has been revealed, which leads to suppression of the MyD88 signaling pathway and downstream MAPK and JNK cascades. This is accompanied by a decrease in the activation of the innate immune response and stabilization of the cytokine profile. In lymphoid cells, an influence on the balance of Th1/Th2 regulation and a decrease in the activity of the Th17 subset have also been recorded.

The neuromodulatory effect of Cinnamomum cassia extracts is manifested in a decrease in the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators in the central nervous system, an increase in the levels of neurotrophic factors (e.g., BDNF), and inhibition of lipid peroxidation in the hippocampus. The ability to suppress the activation of microglia and astrocytes has been established, which indicates a protective influence on the structure and function of central nervous tissue. Indirect data indicate a possible activation of the γ-aminobutyric acid system and modulation of dopaminergic neurons in subcortical structures.

The antimicrobial mechanism is realized through the destruction of the cell walls of pathogenic microorganisms, inhibition of phospholipase A2 activity, and suppression of biofilm formation. Yeast fungi and gram-positive bacteria are considered the most sensitive, especially with respect to oil and alcohol forms of application.

Thus, Cinnamomum cassia exhibits a multi-aspect pharmacological action, affecting the key links of inflammation, oxidative stress, sensory modulation, and immune response. This allows this taxon to be considered a systemically active agent with targets in the nervous, immune, vascular, and skin systems.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874110004021
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.g...

Synergy — Cinnamomum cassia

In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate pronounced pharmacological synergy of Cinnamomum cassia with a number of natural and plant substances, predominantly in the field of modulation of inflammation, antioxidant protection, neuroprotection, and antimicrobial activity. The chemical structure of the active components of Cinnamomum cassia (primarily cinnamic aldehyde) contributes to additive or potentiating interaction with other phenolic and terpenoid compounds.

With flavonoids, especially quercetin and rutin, enhanced antioxidant activity is observed due to synchronous inhibition of ROS production and activation of the glutathione peroxidase system. This interaction is realized at the level of cellular antioxidant defense, stabilization of mitochondria, and reduction of damage to lipid membranes.

When combined with curcumin, potentiation of the anti-inflammatory effect is noted through co-inhibition of the NF-κB cascade, a decrease in the expression of COX-2, TNF-α, and IL-6. Both components demonstrate similar mechanisms of action, enhancing each other through suppression of microglial activity and modulation of the MAPK signaling pathway.

In combination with Zingiber officinale (ginger) and its gingerols, the carminative, antiseptic, and antimicrobial action against gram-positive bacteria and fungi of the genus Candida is enhanced. This interaction is realized both locally (with external forms) and systemically (within complex forms).

When added to the oils of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) and Lavandula angustifolia (lavender), the antiseptic action against skin pathogens, including resistant strains, is enhanced. A number of works also describe a modulating interaction with essential oils of eucalyptus and clove, accompanied by increased transdermal penetration of active components.

A potentiating interaction with polysaccharides of adaptogenic plants (e.g., Panax ginseng, Eleutherococcus senticosus) with respect to stimulation of the immune response has been separately recorded. This may be explained by enhanced phagocytic activity and normalization of the cytokine background.

Thus, the synergy of Cinnamomum cassia is based on a complementary or additive action with respect to plant antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and antiseptics. These interactions have a predominantly tissue and cellular orientation, enhancing systemic effects and reducing the risks of side effects through dose reduction.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874112006872
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...
https://link.springer.com/arti...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Cinnamomum cassia

Chinese cinnamon is traditionally used in the medicine of East and Southeast Asia, especially in China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, South Korea, Thailand, and India. It was also used in the traditional healing systems of Japan, and with the development of international trade — in the medicine of the Arab East, the Mediterranean, and Eastern European countries. The raw material was collected predominantly from wild-growing trees or cultivated in the provinces of Guangxi, Yunnan, Guangdong, and Hainan.

In Chinese traditional medicine, cinnamon bark (rui gui) is included in recipes used since the Han Dynasty period. Mentions are found in the classical treatise "Shennong Bencao Jing," where it is described as a hot and dispersing remedy. It was used in the form of alcohol tinctures, decoctions, powders, and oil pastes. In the Han cultural tradition, it was considered a plant of inner fire and energy movement. In combination with ginger and licorice root, it was used in ancient formulas for regulating vital qi.

In Tibetan medicine and the recipe tradition of the Amchi school, the bark and essential oils of Cinnamomum cassia were mentioned as an integral part of complex formulations, especially for disorders of the balance of wind (lung). It was believed that it warms the subtle channels and promotes the even flow of vital energy. In some Tibetan monasteries, cinnamon powder was mixed with sandalwood dust and used in incense for purifying space and meditative concentration.

In the territory of India and Nepal, cassia cinnamon was used in the Ayurvedic system under the name "Tvak" or "Tamala-patra." It was used in mixtures with other spices, as well as in oil bases intended for rubbing and wraps. According to the treatises of Charaka and Sushruta, the spice belonged to the category of "dipana" — substances that enhance inner fire. In the folk medicine of South India, cinnamon was used for aromatic fumigation of premises after childbirth or in seasonal rites of home purification.

In Vietnam and Cambodia, cinnamon bark was used in medical poultices and wraps. It was added to smoking mixtures used by shamans in practices of expelling disease spirits. In the highland villages of Hoa Binh and Lao Cai, traditional healers placed pieces of bark in water used to wash the body of a sick person, considering it a cleansing remedy.

In the Middle East and the Arab tradition, cassia figured as a "travel spice" and a symbol of purity. In ritual practice, cinnamon was used in a mixture with rose water and musk for anointing, especially in rituals of purification after illness, death, or before an important decision. In North Africa, it was burned in combination with frankincense in rites of expelling the evil eye.

In Rus and Slavic traditions, cassia was known late, mainly as an Eastern commodity. However, in some apocryphal herbals of the 18th century, there are mentions of its "fiery spirit" and ability to "drive darkness out of the body," which indicates attempts to sacralize the substance through folklore interpretations.

Chinese cinnamon was also used as a component of protective sachets hung over children's cradles, and as incense in icon lamps. In magical-religious practices, it was used to strengthen spiritual protection and awaken intuition. In the ritual practice of some peoples of Southeast Asia, bark powder was mixed into paints used for ritual body painting or masks.