| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Cinnamomum verum (syn. Cinnamomum zeylanicum) |
| Pronunciation | SIN-uh-min bark |
| Plant Family | Lauraceae (Laurel Family) |
| Plant Part Used | Inner Bark |
| Extraction Method | Steam Distillation |
| Origin Regions | Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Southern India |
Description
Cinnamon Bark essential oil, distilled from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum verum tree, is one of the world’s most ancient and cherished aromatic treasures. Known for its warm, spicy, and sweet aroma, it has symbolized wealth, vitality, and sacred purification for over 4,000 years. More potent than cinnamon leaf oil, this essential oil captures the fiery essence of the bark itself — rich in cinnamaldehyde and layered with notes of sweetness and warmth that awaken the senses.
Native to Sri Lanka, Cinnamon Bark oil has been valued since the dawn of recorded history. The Egyptians used it for embalming and sacred anointing, the Hebrews burned it as temple incense, and the Romans considered it more precious than gold. During the Middle Ages, cinnamon was one of the most sought-after spices in Europe — a symbol of prosperity and divine favor. In Ayurvedic medicine, it was used to stimulate circulation, aid digestion, and balance Kapha energy.
In aromatherapy today, Cinnamon Bark essential oil is both energizing and comforting, offering strength during fatigue and warmth during emotional coldness. Its fiery character embodies vitality and courage, helping to dispel lethargy and promote creative focus. Diffused, it fills the air with comforting spice — a scent of security, abundance, and inner fire.
Because of its high concentration of cinnamaldehyde, this oil should be used with great care — highly diluted for topical use and never internally unless directed by a qualified professional. But when respected, it rewards with one of nature’s most intoxicatingly warm and uplifting aromas.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Egypt | Sacred oil for embalming and medicine | Mentioned in the Ebers Papyrus (16th century BCE) |
| Old Testament | Holy anointing oil | Listed in Exodus 30:23–24 |
| Ancient Rome | Luxury spice and perfume | More valuable than gold |
| Ayurveda | Circulatory and digestive support | Used to ignite internal “Agni” (digestive fire) |
| Modern Aromatherapy | Warming and protective | Supports immunity, vitality, and confidence |
For millennia, Cinnamon Bark has symbolized protection, warmth, and divine abundance, bridging physical vitality and spiritual reverence.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Warm, spicy, sweet, and woody |
| Scent Strength | Strong (Base to Middle Note) |
| Blends Well With | Clove, Orange, Ginger, Nutmeg, Cardamom, and Frankincense |
Cinnamon Bark’s rich aroma adds both sweetness and intensity to blends, inspiring warmth and focus.
Chemical Composition
| Compound | Approx. % | Function |
|---|---|---|
| (E)-Cinnamaldehyde | 60–80% | Antimicrobial, circulatory stimulant, warming |
| Eugenol | 5–10% | Pain-relieving, adds clove-like sweetness |
| Linalool | 2–4% | Calming and uplifting aroma |
| Coumarin | 0.5–2% | Adds gentle sweetness and depth |
| Cinnamyl Acetate | 1–2% | Fruity undertone; fixes aroma |
| β-Caryophyllene | 0.5–1% | Anti-inflammatory; grounding effect |
The high cinnamaldehyde content gives Cinnamon Bark oil its potent antimicrobial and warming properties, as well as its distinctive, comforting aroma.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not recommended unless under professional supervision. |
| Topical Use | Must be heavily diluted (0.05–0.5%); can irritate skin or mucous membranes. |
| Pregnancy / Children | Avoid during pregnancy and for children under 10. |
| Photosensitivity | Non-phototoxic. |
| Storage | Store tightly sealed in a dark glass bottle; oxidation increases irritation risk. |
Cinnamon Bark essential oil is powerful and must be used with caution — always diluted and never near the eyes or sensitive skin.
Uses & Application Steps
Cinnamon Bark essential oil is celebrated for its warming, stimulating, and protective nature. It brings both physical comfort and emotional courage, symbolizing inner fire and renewal.
Aromatic Use
- Diffuse 1–2 drops (only a small amount needed) to create a cozy, uplifting environment.
- Blend with Orange and Clove for a comforting autumn or winter scent.
- Diffuse during the cold season for immune support and air purification.
Topical Use
- Dilute 1 drop in 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of carrier oil.
- Apply to the soles of the feet for circulation and warmth.
- Avoid facial or direct skin contact with undiluted oil.
Massage or Bath Use
- Blend 1 drop with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil for warming massage (apply only to limbs).
- Combine with Ginger and Cardamom for an invigorating blend.
- Avoid adding directly to bathwater — pre-dilute fully before use.
Home & Aromatic Use
- Add to homemade cleaning sprays for natural antimicrobial power.
- Use in potpourri or simmer blends for a festive home fragrance.
- Diffuse during gatherings to promote joy, connection, and vitality.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| AromaWeb — Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil Profile | https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/cinnamon-bark-essential-oil.php |
| Eden Botanicals — Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil | https://www.edenbotanicals.com/cinnamon-bark.html |
| Florihana — Cinnamon Bark Organic Essential Oil | https://www.florihana.com/us/essential-oils/113-cinnamon-bark-organic-3700343010363.html |
| Plant Therapy — Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil | https://www.planttherapy.com/products/cinnamon-bark-essential-oil |
| PubChem — Cinnamaldehyde Compound Summary | https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/637511 |
Citations & References
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
- PubChem Database — Cinnamaldehyde (CID: 637511).
- IFRA Standards, 2024 Update.
- AromaWeb — Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil Profile.
- Eden Botanicals — Cinnamon Bark Product Page.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Bark essential oil is the embodiment of warmth, protection, and vitality. Its rich, spicy aroma connects ancient rituals with modern well-being, representing the sacred fire that renews and sustains life. From temples of Egypt to hearths of Europe, it has remained a symbol of health, prosperity, and divine energy.
Emotionally, it inspires courage, motivation, and inner strength. It stirs creativity and passion, helping dispel emotional coldness and fatigue. Physically, it supports circulation, immune balance, and warmth in the body — a natural energizer that awakens both the mind and spirit.
Spiritually, Cinnamon Bark oil carries the vibration of sacred fire — the light of purification and transformation. It teaches that true warmth begins within, radiating outward as kindness, vitality, and joy. To experience it is to embrace life’s richness — vibrant, comforting, and courageously alive.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oil. Conduct your own research by reviewing all citations and references listed above.