An Overview of The Anxiolytic Potential of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.)

Abstract

Anxiety disorders are common mental health conditions, and Cinnamomum spp. has emerged as a potential natural source of anxiolytic agents. The aim of this systematic review was to examine the anxiolytic potential of cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.). depending on experimental animal studies available. We performed a PubMed, Cochrane, Wiley and Springer search and found 79 articles of which five met the inclusion criteria. Of the chosen studies, various plant parts (stems/branches/leaves), preparations of extracts, and essential oils from cinnamon species were evaluated. Overall, the findings showed that response were anxiety-reducing for cinnamon in several experimental measures such as elevated plus maze, open field test, forced swim test and social interaction test. One of the main bioactive constituent, cinnamaldehyde, was proposed to have contributed to these effects through antioxidant activity and/or regulation of neuronal function. Inhaled cinnamon essential oil was also shown to have a rapid restorative effect, thus supporting fast nasal pathways from nose to brain. In conclusion, there are promising potentials of cinnamon as an anxiolytic but more consistent studies and clinical trials should be carried out to confirm its effectiveness and safety for widespread use.