# Gencinia (Cinnamomum burmannii)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/gencinia
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-05
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Cinnamomum burmannii, Indonesian cinnamon, Indonesian cassia, Cassia cinnamon, Padang cassia, Korintje cinnamon, Batavia cassia, Burma cinnamon

## Overview

Cinnamomum burmannii (Gencinia or Padang cassia) is a cinnamon species rich in cinnamaldehyde and phenolic compounds that exert antioxidant and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects. Its primary mechanisms involve [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing and inhibition of the lipoxygenase enzyme pathway involved in inflammatory signaling.

## Health Benefits

• Antioxidant activity: Contains phenolic compounds (82.42-316.26 mg GAE/g) and cinnamaldehyde with [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing properties demonstrated in DPPH assays (in vitro evidence only)
• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) potential: Ethyl acetate fraction shows soybean lipoxygenase (SLO) inhibition with IC50=60 μM for 2-hydroxy-cinnamaldehyde (in vitro evidence only)
• Rich in bioactive compounds: Contains catechin, epicatechin, protocatechuic acid, and procyanidin B2 (phytochemical analysis only)
• Essential oil yield: Bark produces 3.2±0.07 wt% essential oil with [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) compounds like borneol and eucalyptol (composition data only)
• Traditional medicine use: Historically used in Indonesian traditional medicine for pharmaceutical and biological activities (traditional use evidence only)

## Mechanism of Action

Cinnamaldehyde and phenolic compounds in Cinnamomum burmannii neutralize free radicals by donating hydrogen atoms, as demonstrated in DPPH radical scavenging assays. The ethyl acetate fraction inhibits soybean lipoxygenase (SLO) with an IC50 of approximately 60 μg/mL, disrupting the arachidonic acid cascade that produces pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. These dual mechanisms suggest both direct [antioxidant protection](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and indirect suppression of lipid peroxidation-driven [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation).

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for Cinnamomum burmannii is based primarily on in vitro studies measuring phenolic content (82.42–316.26 mg GAE/g) and enzyme inhibition assays rather than human clinical trials. DPPH assays confirm meaningful [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing capacity, and SLO inhibition data suggests [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) potential, but neither endpoint has been validated in randomized controlled trials or animal dose-response models specific to this species. The extrapolation of these findings to human health outcomes requires significant caution, as bioavailability, effective human dosages, and clinical endpoints remain unstudied. Overall, the evidence base is preliminary and mechanistic, not yet sufficient to support therapeutic claims.

## Nutritional Profile

Gencinia (Cinnamomum burmannii), also known as Indonesian cassia or Padang cinnamon, is used primarily as a spice and traditional remedy rather than a macronutrient source. Per typical serving (1-6 g ground bark): Calories: ~6-36 kcal; Carbohydrates: ~4.8-29 g (predominantly dietary fiber ~3.2-19 g, representing ~53% of dry weight); Protein: ~0.24-1.44 g; Fat: ~0.07-0.42 g. **Key Bioactive Compounds:** • Cinnamaldehyde: Primary volatile compound, typically 60-90% of essential oil fraction (essential oil yield ~1-4% of dry bark weight), responsible for characteristic aroma and most biological activities. • Trans-cinnamic acid and o-methoxycinnamaldehyde: Present in smaller quantities as related phenylpropanoids. • 2-Hydroxycinnamaldehyde: Notable bioactive with demonstrated lipoxygenase inhibition (IC50 = 60 μM against soybean lipoxygenase). • Coumarin: Notably HIGH in C. burmannii compared to other Cinnamomum species, reported at ~2,100-4,400 mg/kg (significantly exceeding the EU tolerable daily intake of 0.1 mg/kg body weight at higher consumption levels; a major safety concern distinguishing this species from C. verum/true cinnamon which contains only trace amounts ~0.004 mg/kg). • Total phenolic content: 82.42-316.26 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g extract, varying significantly by extraction solvent and fraction (ethyl acetate fractions tend toward higher values). • Catechins and proanthocyanidins (condensed tannins): Present as oligomeric polyphenols contributing to [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity. • Eugenol: Minor volatile component (~1-5% of essential oil). • Minerals (per 100 g ground bark, approximate): Calcium ~1,002 mg; Iron ~8.3 mg; Manganese ~17.5 mg (exceptionally high, ~760% DV per 100 g); Magnesium ~60 mg; Potassium ~431 mg; Zinc ~1.8 mg; Phosphorus ~64 mg. • Vitamins: Small amounts of vitamin A (~15 μg RAE/100 g), vitamin K (~31 μg/100 g), and trace B-vitamins (niacin, riboflavin). **Bioavailability Notes:** Cinnamaldehyde is rapidly absorbed and metabolized to cinnamic acid and hippuric acid; oral bioavailability is moderate but affected by first-pass [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management). Polyphenolic compounds (catechins, proanthocyanidins) have generally low oral bioavailability (estimated 5-15%) due to poor intestinal absorption and extensive hepatic conjugation. Coumarin is readily absorbed orally with high bioavailability (~60-100%), which amplifies hepatotoxicity risk at repeated doses. Water-based extraction (teas, decoctions) preferentially extracts polyphenols and water-soluble compounds while reducing coumarin and essential oil extraction compared to alcohol-based or lipophilic preparations. Mineral bioavailability may be reduced by tannin and fiber content that chelate divalent cations.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available for Cinnamomum burmannii as human trials are absent. Studies only describe essential oil yields and extract compositions without therapeutic dosing specifications. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Cinnamomum burmannii contains relatively high levels of coumarin compared to Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), and chronic high-dose consumption may pose hepatotoxic risk, particularly in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions. It may potentiate the effects of anticoagulant medications such as warfarin due to coumarin content, and caution is warranted when combined with antidiabetic drugs given cinnamon's reported [blood glucose](/ingredients/condition/weight-management)-lowering properties. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid supplemental doses beyond culinary amounts due to insufficient safety data. Individuals with cinnamon or Lauraceae family allergies should avoid this ingredient entirely.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses for Cinnamomum burmannii were identified in the research. Available data is limited to phytochemical profiles, in vitro [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) assessments, and biological assays like soybean lipoxygenase inhibition studies.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Cinnamomum burmannii has been used in Indonesian traditional medicine for its pharmaceutical and biological activities. The bark and leaves have been historically assessed for pectic substances and essential oils, though specific duration of use or traditional medicine systems are not quantified in available research.

## Synergistic Combinations

Ceylon cinnamon, chromium picolinate, alpha-lipoic acid, bitter melon extract, gymnema sylvestre

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the difference between Gencinia (Cinnamomum burmannii) and Ceylon cinnamon?

Gencinia (Cinnamomum burmannii) is Indonesian cassia cinnamon with higher coumarin content and stronger flavor, while Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) is milder and considered 'true' cinnamon. Cinnamomum burmannii contains significant phenolic compounds (82.42-316.26 mg GAE/g) and cinnamaldehyde as its primary bioactive components.

### How does Cinnamomum burmannii provide antioxidant benefits?

Cinnamomum burmannii exhibits antioxidant activity through its phenolic compounds and cinnamaldehyde content, which demonstrate free radical scavenging properties in DPPH assays. The phenolic compound concentration ranges from 82.42-316.26 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram of extract.

### What anti-inflammatory properties does Indonesian cinnamon have?

The ethyl acetate fraction of Cinnamomum burmannii shows anti-inflammatory potential by inhibiting soybean lipoxygenase (SLO). Specifically, 2-hydroxy-cinnamaldehyde demonstrates this inhibition with an IC50 value of 60 μM in laboratory studies.

### Is Gencinia the same as regular cinnamon supplements?

Gencinia refers specifically to Cinnamomum burmannii (Indonesian cinnamon/cassia), which is different from Ceylon cinnamon supplements. It contains distinct bioactive compounds including cinnamaldehyde and specific phenolic profiles that differ from other cinnamon species commonly used in supplements.

### What part of the Cinnamomum burmannii tree is used for extracts?

The inner bark of Cinnamomum burmannii is the primary source material for extracts, processed through methods including methanol extraction and ethyl acetate fractionation. Both bark and leaves have been traditionally assessed for their essential oils and bioactive compounds in Indonesian medicine.

### What is the bioavailability of Gencinia compared to whole Cinnamomum burmannii powder?

Gencinia is a branded extract that concentrates bioactive compounds like cinnamaldehyde and phenolic compounds, potentially offering higher bioavailability than whole cinnamon powder. Extract forms bypass some digestive degradation and may deliver therapeutic levels more efficiently, though absorption rates vary based on formulation and individual factors. Most clinical evidence supporting cinnamon's benefits uses standardized extracts rather than whole plant material.

### Does Gencinia (Cinnamomum burmannii) interact with blood thinning medications or diabetes drugs?

Cinnamomum burmannii contains compounds that may influence blood clotting and blood sugar metabolism, raising potential concerns with anticoagulants (warfarin, aspirin) and diabetes medications. While in vitro studies show biological activity, clinical interactions have not been thoroughly documented in human trials. Individuals taking these medications should consult their healthcare provider before adding Gencinia supplements to avoid possible additive effects.

### Is Gencinia safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Safety data for Gencinia specifically during pregnancy and breastfeeding is limited, though traditional use of cinnamon exists across cultures. Concentrated extracts like Gencinia deliver higher bioactive compound levels than culinary amounts, which warrants caution without specific human safety studies. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before supplementing with branded cinnamon extracts.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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