In June 2025, a team of researchers at Gebze Technical University published results from a promising new study that looked into whether acids from caffeine and cinnamon could be used to treat pleural mesothelioma.
This study focused on two compounds found in nature: caffeic acid and cinnamic acid. Both have been studied for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties — but not specifically in mesothelioma until now.
- Caffeic acid is found in many plants, including coffee, fruits, and vegetables. It’s an antioxidant that protects against cell damage and inflammation. Research shows it may also help fight cancer.
- Cinnamic acid is a compound found in cinnamon that contributes to its aroma but isn’t the same as the whole spice.
Many mesothelioma patients have recently turned to alternative therapies because they may cause fewer side effects than conventional therapies like chemotherapy and radiation.
The goal of the study was to see if these natural substances could slow or stop the growth of mesothelioma without damaging healthy cells in the process.
Attempting to Cure Mesothelioma Naturally With Caffeic Acid
The study involved a series of detailed lab experiments to test how caffeic acid and cinnamic acid affected pleural mesothelioma.
During initial testing, cinnamic acid required much higher doses to be effective. Caffeic acid, on the other hand, showed stronger results. It worked at lower doses, was more effective at targeting cancer cells, and caused minimal harm to healthy cells. Because of this, the researchers focused the rest of their work on caffeic acid alone.
To test it, researchers:
- Measured Cancer Cell Growth and Spread
They checked if the cancer cells continued to grow. Caffeic acid slowed this process down, which means it may help stop mesothelioma from spreading. - Looked at Cell Signals
Cancer cells send signals to stay alive and keep dividing. Caffeic acid blocked these signals, making it harder for the cancer to survive. - Confirmed Mesothelioma Cell Death
The team discovered that caffeic acid triggered cancer cells to self-destruct, a process known as apoptosis. This led to increased cancer cell death while mostly sparing healthy cells.
Essentially, the study showed caffeic acid can selectively kill mesothelioma cells, slow their growth, and block key pathways that help cancer survive and spread.
While studies like this offer hope for future treatments, a mesothelioma specialist can help you explore all available options, including traditional, alternative, and emerging treatments. Use our Free Doctor Match to find top specialists in your area.
Breaking Down the Study Results
These results highlight caffeic acid’s potential as a targeted therapy for pleural mesothelioma. While more research is needed, the early data is promising.
Caffeic acid was able to:
- Slow down the growth of mesothelioma cells
- Prevent the cells from spreading
- Stop cancer cells from multiplying
- Block signals that help cancer survive
- Avoid damaging healthy tissue
Before this treatment can be offered to patients, it needs to go through more testing. This includes trials in animals, such as mice, followed by clinical trials in humans. However, it’s still an encouraging step toward a more natural cure for mesothelioma cancer.
“Caffeic acid may represent a promising candidate for developing new treatments for malignant mesothelioma.”
– Study authors
Find Alternative Treatments for Mesothelioma
At Mesothelioma Hope, we understand that patients and their families want to explore all their treatment options. Whether you’re considering traditional approaches or alternative therapies, our Patient Advocates are here to answer your questions and connect you with the best medical care.
We can help your family:
- Understand all available treatments
- Find top mesothelioma doctors
- Manage symptoms and side effects
- Pursue compensation to pay for medical care
“A big part of my job is helping people understand their options. You don’t have to figure this all out alone.”
– Liz Logan, RN, Mesothelioma Hope Oncology Nurse Navigator
Contact our team now. We’re committed to helping you understand your options, access free support resources, and figure out your next steps.
