Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree species from the genus Cinnamomum. It is used mainly as an aromatic condiment and flavoring additive in a wide variety of cuisines, sweet and savory dishes, breakfast cereals, snack foods, tea and traditional foods. It is also used in traditional medicine.
Cinnamon is the name for several species of trees and the commercial spice products that some of them produce. All are members of the genus Cinnamomum in the family Lauraceae. Only a few Cinnamomum species are grown commercially for spice.
Varieties of Cinnamon
There are several varieties of cinnamon, here are the main ones.
Ceylon Cinnamon: Known as "true cinnamon," this type originates from Sri Lanka and Southern India. It is sweet and mild in flavor.
Cassia Cinnamon: This is the most common type found in grocery stores, especially in the United States. It has a stronger, spicier flavor compared to Ceylon.
Saigon Cinnamon: A subtype of cassia, this variety comes from Vietnam and has a bold, robust flavor. It's considered the best quality among cassia types.
Korintje Cinnamon: This is another cassia type, originating from Indonesia. It's less sweet than Saigon but sweeter than common Cassia.
Indonesian Cinnamon: This type is also a cassia cinnamon but is slightly milder and is often used in commercial baked goods.
Chinese Cinnamon: Also known as Tung Hing, this type is pungent, sweet, and slightly bitter. It is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Malabar Cinnamon: This type originates from the Malabar Coast of India. It has a mild flavor and is less common in the market.
Ethiopian Cinnamon: This variety is less common and has a strong, spicy flavor. It's mostly used in Ethiopia's traditional cooking.
Method of Extracting Cinnamon Oil
Cinnamon oil is extracted primarily through a process known as steam distillation. Here are the 6 main steps involved in this method:
Harvesting: The cinnamon bark is harvested from the tree. The best time to harvest is during the rainy season when the bark is soft and pliable.
Preparation: The harvested bark is allowed to dry in the sun. As it dries, the bark naturally curls up into quills. These quills are then broken into smaller pieces.
Distillation: The dried cinnamon is placed into a distillation pot. Steam is introduced to the pot which causes the essential oil to evaporate.
Condensation: The steam and oil vapor is then passed into a condenser. The condenser cools the vapor back into a liquid form.
Separation: The resulting liquid is a mix of water and oil. This is collected in a separator where, due to the difference in density, the oil naturally separates and floats on top of the water.
Collection: The pure essential cinnamon oil is then siphoned off or decanted.
This method ensures that the essential oil retains the aromatic and medicinal properties of the cinnamon. The oil can then be used for various purposes such as in aromatherapy, as a food flavoring, or in natural health remedies.
Benefits of Cinnamon Oil
There are a number of reported benefits of using Cinnamon Oil, including:
Boosts Immune System: Cinnamon oil contains properties that can strengthen the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and diseases.
Promotes Blood Circulation: It helps to enhance blood circulation, which can aid in reducing pain and ensuring that oxygen is properly distributed throughout the body.
Natural Antimicrobial: It has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which can help in the fight against bacterial and fungal infections.
Enhances Skin Health: It can be used topically to help reduce inflammation, swelling, pain and redness. It is also known for its anti-aging properties.
Aids Digestion: It can help to soothe digestive issues, such as indigestion, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Improves Mood: The warming scent of cinnamon oil can help to uplift the mood and fight against depression and anxiety.
Natural Insect Repellent: It can be used as a natural insect repellent, keeping away mosquitoes, ants, and other insects.
Alleviates Pain: It can be used as a natural pain reliever, particularly for muscle aches, joint pain, and menstrual cramps.
Promotes Oral Health: It has been found to be effective in killing oral bacteria and improving bad breath.
Balances Blood Sugar: It can help to regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
Remember to use cinnamon oil in moderation and to do a patch test before using it.
Cinnamon Oil Recipes
Here are just a few recipes using cinnamon oil
Cinnamon Oil Sugar Scrub:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 10 drops cinnamon essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Store in airtight container.
- Use as a body scrub in the bath or shower for smooth, exfoliated skin.
Cinnamon Oil Lip Balm:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
- 2 tablespoons shea butter
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 10 drops cinnamon essential oil
Instructions:
- Melt beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Remove from heat and add cinnamon oil.
- Pour into lip balm tubes or tins and allow to cool before using.
Cinnamon Oil Room Spray:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup distilled water
- 2 tablespoons witch hazel
- 20 drops cinnamon essential oil
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.
- Spray in rooms for a warm, comforting scent.
Cinnamon Oil Tea:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tea bag (black or herbal tea)
- 1-2 drops cinnamon essential oil
Instructions:
- Steep tea bag in boiling water for 3-5 minutes
- Remove tea bag and add 1 to 2 drops of cinnamon oil
- Mix well before drinking
Safe Use of Essential Oils
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that have a variety ofuses,fromaromatherapy to skincare. However, they must be used safely to prevent any adverse reactions.
Firstly, essential oils should always be diluted before use. Applying them directly totheskincancause irritation or an allergic reaction. A common method of dilution is mixing them with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or almond oil.
Secondly, some essential oils are not safe for ingestion. Always check the label and consult with a healthcare professional before ingesting any essential oil.
Thirdly, essential oils should be stored out of reach of children and pets. Some oils can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Lastly, certain essential oils can interact with medications or have adverse effects on certainmedical conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new essential oil regimen.
Remember, just because something is natural does not mean it is safe for everyone. Always use essential oils responsibly and in moderation.
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