Cinnamic acid is a natural organic compound belonging to the family of phenylpropanoids. It is commonly found in the bark of cinnamon and various other plants. Cinnamic acid has the chemical formula C9H8O2 and it consists of a benzene ring bearing a prop-2-enoic acid substituent on the 1-position.
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Chemical Properties of Cinnamic Acid
[Cinnamic Acid**](coherentmarketinsights.com/market-insight/c..) is a crystalline solid that is moderately soluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and acetone. It has a melting point of 133-135°C and possesses two functional groups - the aromatic benzene ring and the propenoic acid group. Due to the presence of these reactive groups, cinnamic acid undergoes various chemical reactions like esterification, reduction, hydration etc. It readily forms esters, amides and salts with inorganic and organic bases. When reduced, cinnamic acid yields cinnamyl alcohol which has important applications in the fragrance.
Biological Functions of Cinnamic Acid
Cinnamic acid serves as an important intermediate in the biosynthesis of numerous plant secondary metabolites like lignins, flavonoids and hydrocinnamic acid derivatives. These compounds play vital roles in pollinator attraction, defense against microbial pathogens and protection from UV radiation. Cinnamic acid is also a precursor for the synthesis of several phenylpropanoids which exhibit antioxidant properties. In plants, it acts as a signaling molecule during stress responses and activates defense-related pathways.
Medicinal Uses of Cinnamic Acid
Research studies have revealed that cinnamic acid possesses various therapeutic properties like anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and anti-diabetic activities. It shows effectiveness against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria by disrupting their cell membranes. Topical application of cinnamic acid provides relief from fungal skin infections. Moreover, it demonstrates protective effects against chemical-induced liver damage and colon cancer development in animal models. Cinnamic acid supplements have been found to lower blood glucose levels and enhance insulin sensitivity, indicating its potential use for managing diabetes.
Skin Care Benefits of Cinnamic Acid
Being a natural phenolic compound, cinnamic acid functions as a good skin lightening and anti-aging agent. It inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase which is involved in melanin biosynthesis, thus reducing hyperpigmentation issues like age spots, melasma and post-inflammatory marks. Regular use of cinnamic acid-based cosmetic formulations diminishes sun-induced damage, photoaging signs and wrinkle appearance on the skin. It stimulates collagen synthesis for firming skin texture. Cinnamic acid also possesses mild keratolytic activity that aids in exfoliating dead skin cells and unclogging pores. This makes it a suitable ingredient for treating acne-prone skin.
Industrial Uses of Cinnamic Acid
In chemical, cinnamic acid finds application as a precursor for producing various commercial resins and polymers. It is utilized in manufacturing alkyd and polyester resins that are employed as surface coatings and binders. Esterification of cinnamic acid yields cinnamate esters which act as important perfume ingredients, food additives and pharmaceutical intermediates. For instance, methyl cinnamate has an attractive floral scent used in many perfumes and floral essences. Cinnamic acid also goes into the formulation of various agrochemicals, food antioxidants, cosmetic ingredients and corrosion inhibiting compositions. Moreover, plant cell cultures grown in cinnamic acid supplemented media are employed for producing commercially valuable natural products through biotransformation process.
Natural Sources of Cinnamic Acid
Some key plant sources where cinnamic acid occurs naturally and can be obtained commercially include:
- Cinnamon bark: Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) bark contains up to 0.5% cinnamic acid which contributes to its characteristic aroma.
- Cranberries: American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) fruits are loaded with antioxidants including cinnamic acid.
- Blueberries: Vaccinium species of blueberries are a rich source, containing over 350mg/kg of cinnamic acid.
- Coffee beans: Unroasted coffee beans harbor significant amounts of cinnamic acid that decreases during the roasting process.
- Sunflower seeds: Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seeds are packed with phenolic compounds like cinnamic, caffeic and ferulic acids.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger rhizomes of Zingiber officinale yield cinnamic acid upon extraction.
- Cinnamon leaf oil: Cinnamomum tamala leaves oil contains over 60% cinnamic aldehyde derived from cinnamic acid.
Cinnamic Acid is a versatile aromatic compound found abundantly in plant-based foods and spices. It performs crucial biological functions and exhibits wide-ranging pharmacological activities. Owing to its therapeutic properties and industrial applications as a building block chemical, cinnamic acid holds great commercial prospects. Further studies are exploring newer uses of this promising natural phenol in various fields including medicine, skin care and agriculture.
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