Products
Cinnamaldehyde is found, for example, in cinnamon bark, cinnamon oil, cosmetics, personal care products and foods.
Structure
Cinnamaldehyde (C9H8O, Mr = 132.2 g/mol) exists as a yellow and viscous liquid with an odor of cinnamon that is sparingly soluble in water. It is a natural substance found in cinnamon and its essential oil and belongs to the phenylpropanoids. Cinnamaldehyde is also produced synthetically. The one usually used is -cinnamaldehyde (Figure). Cinnamaldehyde is an aromatic and unsaturated aldehyde.
Effects
Cinnamaldehyde has antimicrobial, carminative, and antidiabetic properties, among others.
Indications for use
- For cosmetics and personal care products.
- For the preparation of perfumes.
- In food technology.
- For allergy testing.
Adverse effects
Cinnamaldehyde is a known allergen that can cause allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis.