Our Story

The world’s first Ceylon cinnamon shot, homegrown in Sri Lanka

Colombo-residents Ranmali Abeyasinghe and Viraj Da Silva, the new generation of a highly established spice export company, SDS Spices, decided to start SaaraLabs in 2015, a research and development vertical of the parent, legacy company.

After years of clinical testing and trials, SaaraLabs launched Sweet Wood in 2024, the world’s first clinically proven Ceylon Cinnamon extract, produced in-house at the family’s state-of-the-art factory in southern Sri Lanka

Sweet Wood shots was introduced to the global stage in October 2024 at SIALPARIS 2024, one of the worlds leading food innovation exhibitions and was selected as one of the finalists for the Most Innovative Product at SIAL 2024. This recognition highlights Sweet Wood’s groundbreaking formulation as the first clinically proven Ceylon Cinnamon shot, merging tradition with cutting-edge science.

The cinnamon story for the family’s company, SDS Spices, however, dates back to the 1931 when Viraj’s grandfather, Sherman, had an entrepreneurial vision to take Sri Lankan spices to the globe. In the same vein, two generations later, cofounders, Ranmali and Viraj, have reinvented the cinnamon wheel by taking its ‘Nutraceutical’ version to the global audience. Sweet Wood represents innovation, an all-female team and nature’s benefits in a bottle.

Our Vision

To redefine wellness by delivering scientifically validated, nature-based solutions that are both effective and effortless to incorporate into daily life — empowering people everywhere to take control of their health.

Our Mission

At Sweet Wood, we are committed to transforming traditional ingredients into clinically backed, easy-to-use wellness products. Through rigorous research, innovative formulations, and a deep respect for nature, we aim to make health accessible, trustworthy, and enjoyable

Our Team

A Chartered Financial Analyst and former investment banker, Ranmali Abeyasinghe transitioned from finance to natural health with a singular vision: to merge scientific research with Sri Lanka’s rich spice heritage. In 2015, she founded SaaraLabs, the R&D arm of SDS Spices, where she led the development of the world’s first clinically proven Ceylon Cinnamon shot — Sweet Wood. Ranmali is passionate about women-led innovation, evidence-based wellness, and creating health products that are as purposeful as they are powerful.

Ranmali Abeyasinghe

Founder & Managing Director - SaaraLabs

As the third generation of a pioneering Sri Lankan spice family, Viraj De Silva brings deep expertise in sustainable agriculture, global trade, and value-added spice processing. Since taking the helm of SDS Spices in 2018, he has expanded the company’s global footprint, modernized its operations, and championed the integration of science and sustainability through partnerships like SaaraLabs. Viraj is driven by a mission to elevate Sri Lankan cinnamon on the world stage — with a commitment to quality, innovation, and ethical sourcing.

Viraj De Silva

Managing Director - SDS Spices