Cinnamon essential oil, 1 L

Essential Information:

• Botanical Name: Cinnamomum zeylanicum (or Cinnamomum cassia)
• Plant Part: Bark
• Extraction Method: Steam distillation
• Color: Light yellow to reddish-brown
• Aroma: Warm, spicy, slightly sweet
• Chemical Composition: The primary constituents of cinnamon essential oil include cinnamaldehyde (50-80%), eugenol (up to 5%), and other aromatic compounds.

Chemical Properties:

• Flammable
• Irritant (skin, eyes, mucous membranes)
• Photosensitizing (potential to increase skin sensitivity to sunlight)

Safety Considerations:

• Dilution: Cinnamon essential oil must always be significantly diluted before topical application. A dilution rate of 0.5% or less is generally recommended.
• Skin Testing: Conduct a patch test on a small area of the inner forearm before using cinnamon essential oil on larger areas of the body.
• Avoidance: Not recommended for use by pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or individuals with sensitive skin.
• Sun Exposure: Avoid direct sunlight after topical application due to photosensitization potential.

Cosmetic Uses:

• Aromatherapy: Cinnamon essential oil's invigorating aroma can be used in diffusers or diluted in carrier oils for massage or inhalation.
• Hair Care: When properly diluted, cinnamon essential oil can be added to shampoos or conditioners to promote scalp health and potentially stimulate hair growth (limited research).
• Skin Care: Due to its strong properties, cinnamon essential oil is generally not recommended for direct application to the skin. However, it may be used in very dilute concentrations (0.05% or less) in certain formulations, always under the guidance of a qualified skincare professional.

Important Note:

• Consult a healthcare professional before using cinnamon essential oil, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Additional Considerations:

• Cinnamon essential oil can interact with certain medications.
• It's crucial to source high-quality, genuine cinnamon essential oil from a reputable supplier.
• Store the oil in a dark, cool place in a tightly sealed container.