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What are the Health Benefits of Cinnamon Oil?
Cinnamon oil is derived from the bark and leaves of the cinnamon plant, known botanically as cinnamonum zevlanicum. The tree produces both cinnamon bark oil and cinnamon leaf oil. While each has distinctive benefits, cinnamon is known to be high in antioxidants with antibacterial properties. The health benefits of cinnamon oil range from stimulating the digestive and lymphatic systems to regulating menstruation.
It should be noted that both varieties of cinnamon oil are highly potent and toxic. Cinnamon oil may cause irritation to the skin and mucous membranes, and in severe circumstances, an overdose can depress the central nervous system. It should be used only in diluted form, most commonly in a diffuser, and should never be consumed internally. Cinnamon can help to induce and regulate menstruation, so it should never be used during pregnancy. Consult a qualified medical professional before using cinnamon oil.
A known stimulant, the health benefits of cinnamon oil primarily involve enhanced functioning of the body's systems. Stimulation of the circulatory system can result in positive effects on blood pressure and may increase sexual function. Diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, and flatulence may be minimized by invigoration of the digestive system. Stimulation of the lymphatic system may result in soothed pain from rheumatism and menstrual cramps.
Cinnamon leaf oil is extracted from the leaves and twigs of the cinnamon plant and includes the chemical component eugenol. It is considered less toxic than cinnamon bark oil, and has numerous uses. The health benefits of cinnamon leaf oil may include the relief of cystitis, digestive issues, and poor circulation. It may have a positive effect in reducing depression and easing stress, and it has been shown help to induce menstruation and may reduce the pain of cramps. Research has proven cinnamon leaf oil is very effective in killing mosquito larvae, making it a powerful mosquito repellent.
Cinnamon bark oil is distilled from the dried inner bark of the tree and contains a chemical component called cinnameldehyde. A natural pain reliever, it is extremely powerful as an antifungal and also has anti-inflammatory and anti-parasitic properties. It is widely known in aromatherapy for effectively fighting pathogenic bacteria, along with candida and apergillus. Research also shows it may have a positive effect on glucose metabolism, and may fight fungi in the respiratory tract. Cinnamon bark oil may cause extreme skin irritation, however, and should be diffused or inhaled for maximum health benefits.
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![Cinnamon sticks.]()
By: NatikaCinnamon sticks. -
![Cinnamon oil has been used to treat menstrual cramps.]()
By: Ana Blazic PavlovicCinnamon oil has been used to treat menstrual cramps. -
![Cinnamon leaf oil is an effective mosquito repellent.]()
By: saidin jusohCinnamon leaf oil is an effective mosquito repellent. -
![When used in aromatherapy, cinnamon essential oil is said to be helpful to individuals with too much candida.]()
By: dolphfynWhen used in aromatherapy, cinnamon essential oil is said to be helpful to individuals with too much candida. -
![Cinnamon bark oil is distilled from the inner bark of the cinnamon plant.]()
By: Lucie ÅÃhováCinnamon bark oil is distilled from the inner bark of the cinnamon plant.
Discussion Comments
Can cinnamon gum be used to reduce oil absorption during frying?
@turkay1, @ysmina-- Cinnamon oil has many benefits, it's especially good for stomach and digestive issues. You can also use it to relieve an aching tooth. I tried this once and it helped, it seemed to numb it and I'm sure the antibacterial properties helped too. As for the amount, I mixed equal amounts of cinnamon oil and vegetable oil.
My husband uses cinnamon water as a mouthwash daily. He boils cinnamon in water and then stores that in a jar and keeps it in the bathroom. It kills the germs and gives a really fresh breath. I'm not sure if the same could be done with cinnamon oil though.
There are certified aroma therapists who could give more detailed directions for using cinnamon oil and all the different ways it could be used. You could try a quick local search online for one.
@turkay1-- I'm not sure why people would shy away from using cinnamon oil. I use it whenever I have aches and pains. I only use several drops of pure cinnamon oil and always dilute it with another oil. This is an individual preference, some people use more or use less. But I have sensitive skin so I like to keep the amount to a minimum.
Then I take this mixture and rub it on where I have pain until it absorbs into my skin. It works really well for stomach pain and for headaches. The scent of cinnamon is really good for me so I think it has an aromatherapy effect at the same time.
I have not tried this but I suppose that cinnamon oil would be a good home remedy for skin fungi as well. My mom has been dealing with a persistent fungal infection on her toes. I will recommend cinnamon oil to her. I think it will help.
I'm very much into the use of natural oils and essences for treating minor ailments at home. I use oregano oil for example when I catch a cold. It's great for the stomach and it warms up the body. I use sesame oil and camphor for joint aches and pains and almond oil for skin care.
Cinnamon essential oil has such great antibacterial and anti-fungicide properties that most of us are aware of. But from what I can tell by talking to my friends and acquaintances, it is rarely used if at all as a remedy. Why is this?
Are we afraid of its toxicity or that we might accidentally use so much? What are some basic recipes to use this oil at home for minor ailments?
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