Native to southeastern Asia, Cinnamomum zeylanicum is an evergreen tree with highly fragrant leaves and bark. Steam distillation of the leaves, bark and root yield three similar, but distinct, essential oils. Cinnamon bark oil and cinnamon leaf oil are thin yellow liquids with spicy, warm aromas. Cinnamon bark oil, which is considered "true" cinnamon by essential oil connoisseurs, is a brown, viscous liquid with a rich, powerful scent.

Cinnamon is used both in the perfume and pharmaceutical industries. Its strong antiseptic properties make cinnamon bark oil the flavoring of choice for digestive aids, liniments and oral care products. Cinnamon leaf oil, which is less pungent than cinnamon bark oil, is used in the food industry to flavor candies, sauces and pastries. Cinnamon bark essential oil is also used extensively in perfumes, soaps and lotions.

Cinnamon in Aromatherapy

Cinnamon is used in aromatherapy for its ability to warm and stimulate the senses. Aromatherapists believe that cinnamon essential oil restores vigor and fights depression and melancholy. Its familiar, comforting scent is recommended for those suffering from anxiety and fear. Cinnamon essential oil is also diffused in sick rooms to strengthen the immune system. It's a popular scent that's used in the early stages of a cold or fever.

Thanks in part to its high eugenol content, cinnamon bark essential oil is a strong dermal irritant. And sensitization is common so cinnamon bark oil is never used topically or orally. Cinnamon leaf oil, which is a bit milder, is generally considered safe if properly diluted but irritation is possible with it, as well so cinnamon essential oils are used mainly through diffusion.

Choosing a Good Cinnamon Essential Oil

Cinnamon is an easily recognizable scent that should smell clean and full. It has an intense spicy aroma that feels full and warm in the nose. Cinnamon essential oils is always made of Cinnamomum zeylanicum and should never be confused with C. cassia, which is a completely different species.

Cinnamon leaf essential oil is considered a middle note while cinnamon bark oil is usually classified as a base note. And cinnamon enjoys the distinction of being one of the few essential oils that can "balance" a blend. Cinnamon essential oil can both lighten heavy, wood blends and deepen grassy, herbaceous blends. Cinnamon blends especially well with other wood oils like frankincense, sandalwood and patchouli.