Allisyn is an over-the-counter herbal supplement that has been designed for adults to help maintain cardiovascular health and lower high blood lipid levels. It is manufactured by Genestra and is a combination of garlic bulb and cinnamon bark.
That being said, the key ingredients in Allisyn include: Allicin, Cinnamaldehyde, Cinnamon Bark, Garlic Bulb Powder. Each serving contains 500 mg of garlic and 200 mg of cinnamon. The recommended dosage is to take one capsule two times daily.
Garlic is the main bioactive compound in the sulfur-containing compound allicin. When it is broken down, it results in the odor for which garlic is well known. Some research suggests that using garlic over the long term can help to lower elevated lipid levels by hindering cholesterol synthesis and LDL (bad cholesterol) oxidation in the liver.
Unfortunately, while there is strong evidence to support that garlic can be beneficial for different uses related to health – such as reducing the hardening of arteries, high blood pressure and lowering the risk of developing certain cancers (ex. colon, rectal and prostate cancer) – there is insufficient evidence to support claims that garlic is effective for helping to control high cholesterol.
While some research does suggest it may offer some benefits when taken over the short term (6 months), it becomes less effective after that. In essence, there is not enough solid scientific evidence to prove that garlic lowers high cholesterol or high triglyceride levels.
Cinnamon bark is the other main ingredient. It may increase blood flow and contains a chemical that could function like insulin and lower blood sugar. There is insufficient evidence to support these claims.
As for side effects, since Allisyn contains garlic, this supplement may give you bad breath it can also thin the blood, reducing the ability for blood to clot. While this is not a problem for most people, this product should be avoided by anyone who has issues with blood clotting, who bleeds easily, or anyone taking blood thinners.
Individuals with type 2 diabetes should also steer clear of this product as there is a possibility that cinnamon could lower blood sugar in people with this disease.
Prior to taking Allisyn you should first consult with your health care provider to make sure that this dietary supplement is safe for you. This is especially important if you intend to take it to treat high cholesterol, high blood pressure or any other medical condition that should be brought to your doctor’s attention.
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