In vitro activity of Cinnamomum zeylanicum against azole resistant and sensitive Candida species and a pilot study of cinnamon for oral candidiasis.

Abstract

Aqueous extracts of powdered bark of Cinnamomum zeylanicum exhibited activity against fluconazole-resistant and susceptible Candida spp. (8 isolates from HIV [human immunodeficiency virus]-infected patients) in vitro (MIC values of <0.05-30 mg/ml). trans-Cinnamaldehyde and O-methoxycinnamaldehyde (isolated from Cinnamomum zeylanicum) also exhibited activity against Candida spp. (MIC values of 0.03-0.5 mg/ml). Cinnamon sweets were also tested for activity (MIC values of 25-100 mg/ml). Five patients with HIV and oral candidosis received a commercially available cinnamon preparation for one week. Three patients exhibited improvement of their oral candidosis. Clinical trials will be necessary to determine the usefulness of cinnamon for the treatment of mucosal candidosis.