Cinnamon (Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Leaf Oil)
Cinnamon essential oil, also referred to as Ceylon, Madagascar, Seychelles or true cinnamon, has a sharp and sweet, spicy musky smell.
The cinnamon tree is native to Indonesia and also cultivated in Sri Lanka and India. It is a naturally tall tree, it can grow up to 15 meters tall, with small white flowers, shiny leaves and purply berries. The thin quill-like bark is gathered every 2 years.
Extraction
The leaves, twigs and/or inner dried bark are steam distilled. Amour Natural uses cinnamon essential oil that is extracted from the leaf as it yields a more pleasing delicate oil.
Affects
Cinnamon oil is beneficial due to its calming and warming properties. It's festive, spicy aroma works will in candles, diffusers, oil burners, incense and air sprays.
When used on the skin, cinnamon may clear warts, take the sting out of bites and act as an astringent. However, cinnamon essential oil can be irritating to skin so use with caution and always dilute thoroughly.
A little history
Around 4000 years ago, cinnamon spice was an important trade commodity between India, China and Egypt. Cinnamon (from the Greek word 'Cinnamon' meaning 'tube' or 'pipe' due to the bark) was traditionally and most commonly used for incense in temples. It was also used as an ingredient for love potions and as a sedative for women during childbirth. Since the 9th century, the spice has also become an important ingredient in mulled wine.
Chemical constituents
Linalool (Alcohol), Benaldehyde, Cinnamic, Furfural (Aldehyde), Eugenol, Safrole (Phenols), Cymene, Dipentene, Phellandrene, Pinene (Terpenes).
Blending
Cinnamon essential oil blends well with benzoin, clove, frankincense, ginger, grapefruit, lavender, sweet orange, rosemary, thyme and pine.
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Suggested directions for use:
Add 6-10 drops in a bath. Mix 5 drops with water to use in an oil burner. Mix 6-10 drops with hot water as an inhalation. Mix 5 drops per 10ml of carrier oil for massage. Precautions: Do not take internally. Keep away from children and eyes. If pregnant or have a medical condition consult with your practitioner before use. If oil gets into eyes splash out with water, seek medical advice if necessary. If unfamiliar with essential oils seek advice from a practitioner.  |