Cinnamomum verum: Comprehensive Insights into Phytochemical Constituents, Pharmacological Activities, Nutritional Value, larvicidal properties and Safety Profile

Cinnamomum verum (syn. Cinnamomum zeylanicum), also known as Ceylon or true cinnamon, is a species of Lauraceae that has long been used in traditional and conventional medicine. The growing problem of drug resistance in infectious diseases, cancer, and metabolic disorders worldwide calls for the investigation of plant-derived bioactive compounds as alternative or complementary drugs. This review aims to systematically gather existing evidence on the phytochemical composition, pharmacological properties, nutritional significance, and toxicology of C. Verum. The plant is known to be a rich source of volatile and non-volatile secondary plant compounds such as (E)-cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, cinnamic acid, proanthocyanidins, flavonoids, and terpenoids. These compounds are responsible for various biological activities like antimicrobial, antiviral, antiparasitic, antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and larvicidal properties. These findings justify further standardized clinical studies. Mechanistically, C. Verum has been found to affect major molecular pathways like NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and insulin receptor pathways, along with the augmentation of endogenous antioxidant mechanisms. Clinical and preclinical studies have shown positive effects on glycemic regulation, lipid profiles, and inflammatory markers. Toxicological studies have revealed general safety at dietary levels, although excessive use and contamination can be hazardous. In conclusion, C. Verum is a promising multi-target phytotherapeutic agent that justifies further standardized clinical studies.