Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cinnamic aldehyde, the main component of cinnamon oil, has a long history of traditional use in various medicine systems, particularly in East Asian and Ayurvedic medicine, for treating colds and related respiratory ailments. The tradition is based on the warming properties attributed to cinnamon, which is believed to help expel cold, improve circulation, and alleviate symptoms such as congestion and cough. While some in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that cinnamic aldehyde possesses antimicrobial and antiviral properties—showing effects against a range of bacteria and certain viruses—there is limited direct clinical research validating its efficacy specifically for treating colds in humans. The evidence comes primarily from laboratory research and not from robust human trials. Therefore, its use for colds is justified mainly by traditional practice and preliminary scientific rationale, but not by strong clinical evidence. Reviews of natural remedies for colds sometimes mention cinnamon, but note the lack of well-conducted studies. Thus, while cinnamic aldehyde is traditionally used to support cold treatment and there is some weak scientific plausibility, the overall evidence level is low.

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