Study on Ceylon Cinnamon Extract Published in PLOS One

A study by Clinical Trials Unit, University of Kelaniya and RemediumOne found a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose (FBS) levels among participants, with the greatest effect observed in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes who received Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Ceylon cinnamon) extract.

The trial, coordinated by our Sri Lankan researchers and led by Dr. Dimuthu Muthukuda (Consultant Endocrinologist) and Prof. A. Pathmeswaran (Professor in Public Health, University of Kelaniya) was published in PLOS One https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0317904. This study aimed to understand how Ceylon cinnamon, which is endemic to Sri Lanka, affects cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as well as its safety, in people with LDL cholesterol levels between 100 and 190 mg/dL.

In contrast to previous studies that primarily used whole cinnamon or water extracts, often derived from Cinnamomum cassia (C. cassia), our trial used a full-spectrum extract of C. zeylanicum, preserving both polar and non-polar compounds. This approach offers a more complete representation of the active ingredients. Additionally, C. zeylanicum has a lower coumarin content compared to C. cassia, making it a safer option for long-term use.

The trial was funded by SDS Spices Pvt. Ltd., which also manufactured the investigational product. RemediumOne and Clinical Trials Unit, University of Kelaniya played a pivotal role in coordinating the trial, overseeing activities from protocol development to publication. The findings highlight the potential health benefits of Ceylon cinnamon, endemic to Sri Lanka, and may positively impact the country’s cinnamon industry, which supports around 350,000 smallholder families.

Researchers call for further studies to confirm these results.