Cinnamon oil

The characteristic warm spicy aroma of cinnamon is most associated with a cozy atmosphere and homely warmth, and evokes memories of winter landscapes and the holiday season. Nostalgic thoughts of freshly baked apple pie or cinnamon pancakes are awakened. This in itself makes the calming effect of this aroma obvious.

Origin and characteristics of cinnamon

Because of the winter coziness that cinnamon evokes, one might assume that it originates from northern regions, but this is not the case. The evergreen cinnamon tree (of the genus Cinnamomum) grows in warm tropical regions. It is native to Sri Lanka, some other Asian countries and Africa. Cinnamon is obtained from the inner bark of the tree. The stripped pieces of bark are dried on coconut mats, causing the pieces to change color and curl, forming the familiar tube-shaped cinnamon sticks. The early English name for this spice was “canel” or “canella,” from the Latin word for “tube,” referring to the curled bark after it had dried. The current name for cinnamon comes from the Arabic and Hebrew words “amomon” or “cinnamon,” meaning “aromatic spice.”

The cinnamon tree is recognizable by its distinctive rusty-brown bark, oval leaves with a shiny, leathery texture, and small white flowers, all highly aromatic. The typical aroma of cinnamon is warm, slightly fruity, peppery, and vanilla-like. Cinnamon has been used as a spice in food for centuries and has since been known for its healing and soothing properties. Cinnamon was also used in embalming rituals, likely due to its preservative properties. Cinnamon is considered one of the oldest spices in the world and was once considered more valuable than gold, often serving as a gift to royalty and the gods. It is also known as one of the traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic (holistic) remedies.

Cinnamon is actually a multi-purpose remedy that can be used for a variety of ailments and discomforts. Cinnamon has long been known for its general tonic effect against colds, diarrhea, nausea, flatulence, and menstrual cramps. It even helps (yes, really!) against cold feet, as cinnamon has the ability to warm your body.

Fun fact: The positive properties of cinnamon are greatly enhanced when consumed with honey. But the opposite is also true: the powerful effects of honey are enhanced by cinnamon. A classic example is when 1+1=3.

Cinnamon Oil

Cinnamon essential oil is obtained by steam distillation from pieces of bark. This healing oil is believed to promote spirituality and have beneficial healing effects. Cinnamon essential oil is promoted as a natural remedy for many ailments, from coughs and colds to constipation. Cinnamon oil is a powerful immune system support, and its antiviral and antibacterial effects make it an excellent remedy for the flu and colds.

Cinnamon Oil and Its Benefits

Throughout history, the cinnamon plant has been associated with protection and prosperity. In addition to its calming effect on psychological health, it also has a relaxing effect on strained muscles. This oil strengthens and warms from the cold (at low temperatures), and also saves from chills. Cinnamon oil warms the skin and stimulates blood flow. The analgesic and antispasmodic action allows it to be used as a massage oil in the treatment of muscle pain or sprains. Just a few drops added to a carrier oil and applied to the skin can effectively relieve chills, cold hands and feet.

The aroma of cinnamon oil is warm, bitter, spicy and at the same time indescribably sweet. The oil contains a number of impressive and beneficial compounds that are believed to promote well-being. These include cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, eugenol and eugenol acetate as the main components.

• Cinnamaldehyde is an organic compound that gives cinnamon its flavor and aroma. Cinnamaldehyde has antifungal and antibacterial properties that reduce the symptoms of infection and help fight tooth decay and bad breath.
• Cinnamyl acetate – acts as a flavoring agent, metabolite, and insecticide. This compound contributes significantly to the sweet, spicy, floral, and balsamic aroma and taste of cinnamon oil, it is used to create perfumes, and is also effective in repelling annoying insects.
• Eugenol and eugenol–acetate have powerful antiseptic, analgesic, antibacterial and anticancer properties. They effectively purify the blood and protect the body from cardiovascular diseases, as well as prevent stomach ulcers.

Cinnamon Oil for Skin

According to a study published in 2017, cinnamon essential oil stops the production of several protein biomarkers that are involved in skin inflammation and tissue remodeling. Cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a powerful natural remedy for inflammatory skin problems like rashes and acne. Mix cinnamon oil with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and apply it to your skin to benefit from its antimicrobial properties.

Cinnamon Oil for Lips

Warming cinnamon oil for lips is a natural way to plump your lips by stimulating circulation in the area. Mix just two drops of cinnamon oil with a tablespoon of coconut oil for the perfect DIY treatment that will result in plumper lips.

Cinnamon Oil for Hair Care

Cinnamon oil is very beneficial for hair. This spicy essential oil is recommended for improving hair health and growth. A few drops mixed with almond oil as a carrier oil make a simple scalp treatment at home.

Cinnamon Oil for Fungal Infections

Studies have shown that cinnamon oil (as well as olive oil) is effective against fungi such as Candida albicans, which is the main cause of toenail fungus and other fungal infections. It can also help with psoriasis. For a natural treatment, mix a few drops of cinnamon essential oil with olive or coconut oil and apply directly to the problem area.

Cinnamon Oil and Arthritis

Because cinnamon oil improves circulation and suppresses inflammation, it can help relieve pain and stiffness caused by arthritis and other bone conditions. To do this, simply massage the painful areas of the body with this oil.

Cinnamon Oil and Aromatherapy

As mentioned, cinnamon essential oil stimulates blood circulation. It is also a powerful stress and pain reliever, can fight infections, improve digestion, repel insects, and soothe insect bites.

The use of cinnamon oil in aromatherapy has not been widely studied, but many people enjoy the rich smell of cinnamon and its relaxing effects. Aromatherapy has many benefits, such as reducing depression and anxiety, and improving sleep. Enjoy aromatherapy with cinnamon oil not only for its pleasant aroma that immerses you in sweet memories, but also for the therapeutic effect it has.

Cinnamon Oil – A Great Mood Booster!

Cinnamon oil is a popular choice for home use in aromatherapy. Cinnamon essential oil can be diffused using an aroma lamp or diffuser. It can also be simply sprayed into the air to inhale the aroma or absorbed through the skin.

Cinnamon Oil as an Aphrodisiac

Cinnamon is known as a natural aphrodisiac because it promotes blood flow, especially in the abdominal area. By improving blood flow to the male and female genitals, it can promote sexual arousal.

Cinnamon Oil for Massage

The components of cinnamon oil help improve blood circulation, supply the brain with more oxygen and allow the body to use energy better. Cinnamon oil mixes very well with a carrier oil, which makes it a wonderful soothing massage oil. Mix a few drops of cinnamon oil with oils such as jojoba or argan oil for massage and to moisturize the skin.

Cinnamon Oil for Deodorizing Your Home

Would you like to fill your home with the warm scent of freshly baked apple pie during the fall and cold winter months? Make your own natural deodorizer and air freshener for your home using cinnamon essential oil as a homemade spray. You can also combine it with other pleasant scents such as orange, lemon or clove oil. Another way to scent your environment is to apply a few drops of cinnamon oil to a napkin or cloth, or even dried flowers. While the cinnamon oil refreshes and even detoxifies the air, you will experience a feeling of grounding and relaxation at the same time.

How to Use

In all cases of use, it is highly recommended to dilute cinnamon oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba, almond, or argan oil. Use a ratio of 1:5.