Cinnamon essential oil is steam distilled from the bark and leaves of the cinnamomum zeylanicum plant. The oil obtained is of different potency depending on which part of the plant is used. The plant has its origin in Vietnam, but…

Cinnamon essential oil is steam distilled from the bark and leaves of the cinnamomum zeylanicum plant. The oil obtained is of different potency depending on which part of the plant is used. The plant has its origin in Vietnam, but it is grown in a number of tropical areas like India, China, Madagascar, Brazil, and the Caribbean.

The oil is of golden yellow to brown color, with a slightly oily feeling. With a much richer aroma than ground cinnamon, its aromatic description is listed as warm, peppery, earthy, spicy, and slightly woody. With a strong initial aroma, it is used as a middle note in perfumery.

Cinnamon essential oil extracted from the bark of the plant is not used in aromatherapy because of its potency. In such a state, it is an irritant and a sensitizer. It is however used in expensive perfumes. This oil has antiseptic powers and is a circulatory stimulant. The oil extracted from the leaf is usually the most used, and it is perfect for scenting products like candles with cinnamon scent.

Cinnamon essential oil has analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, cardiac, carminative, emmenagogue, insecticide, stimulant, and tonic properties. It is potent in antifungal compounds, and also has a positive effect on the digestive and lymphatic system while toning the body.

Possible uses of cinnamon essential oil are for exhaustion, flatulence, lice, low blood pressure, rheumatism, stress, and even scabies. It is also a vermifuge. However, it should be used with care and diluted in a carrier oil as it is a mucous membrane irritant and strong skin sensitizer. Its use should be avoided in cases of hemophilia, prostatic cancer, kidney and liver problems, alcoholism, and if you are currently taking an anticoagulant.

Expiry term of cinnamon essential oil is 5 years under proper storage conditions. The oil should be stored in well-sealed bottles at 5-25 degrees Celsius, in a dry and well ventilated area, away from direct heat and sunlight.