Cinnammon leaf essential Oil
Cinnamon leaf essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves of Cinnamomum zeylanicum, part of the Laurel botanical family. Native to Sri Lanka and India, oil derived from the leaves has a high level of phenols, as opposed to oils distilled from the bark, which are higher in aldehydes. Cinnamon leaf essential oil is lighter weight and much less expensive than cinnamon bark oil, and is less of a skin irritant, which makes it more popular for everyday use. Its scent is warm, earthy, musky, sweet and spicy with a medium middle fragrance note. The Cinnamon leaf essential oil itself is a clear, light yellow liquid with a thin consistency. Its chemical constituents include eugenol, cinnamic aldehyde, eugenol acetate, linalool, and benzyl benzoate, and cinnamaldehyde to a lesser degree. The latter ingredient is what gives it its distinct aroma and flavor, but is more present in the bark than in the leaves. The tree itself is now grown in just about every tropical region in the world, and its spice is one a staple of spice racks everywhere. It is still an important component in Ayurvedic medicine, where it is used to treat infections, blood disorders, menstrual dysfunction, and bacterial infection.
Cinnammon Leaf essential oil in history
Cinnamon is one of the oldest known culinary spices. Mentioned in the bible, it was used in ancient Egypt as an aid to their embalming process, and was considered as valuable as gold. The cinnamon tree is said to be one of the oldest known trees on this planet, along with cedar, frankincense and myrrh. Native to Sri Lanka (also known as Ceylon), it is also widely grown on the Malabar coast of India, Madagascar, Burma (Myanmar), South America, and the West Indies. In the old testament of the bible, (Exodus), it was one of the oils in a recipe given to Moses for a holy anointing oil. The Egyptians made it into a perfume that was restricted for use among their nobles. Its use was known first as a medicine and as a fragrance long before it was discovered that the inner bark was so delightful as a spice. In 1500 BC, the Arabs controlled the export of all types of cinnamon, and it wasn’t until nearly two thousand years later that the Romans began to seek other sources across the Indian Ocean. In medieval Europe, cinnamon was used more for flavoring than it was for medicine, but throughout history its value has been documented in treating common ailments such as arthritis, diarrhea, flatulence, women’s reproductive issues, infection, nausea, and sore throats.
Cinnammon Leaf essential oil uses
Insect repellant: keeps flying insects like mosquitoes, gnats, midges and flies at bay.
Anti-bacterial/disinfectant: kills many types of bacteria on contact, so is excellent for use on household surfaces as well as in topical anti-bacterial preparations.
Anti-microbial: prevents against the uptake of viruses in your system, and inhibits their growth, helping you to recover from illness more quickly.
Anti-fungal: kills fungal diseases of the skin, such as athlete’s foot and ringworm.
Decongestant: eases the discomfort of congestion due to seasonal illness or allergies; breaks up mucous in the chest and sinuses.
Stomach disorders: soothes a nervous stomach and calms nausea, while reducing gas and bloating due to indigestion.
Improves blood circulation: a ‘hot’ oil, its warming sensation stimulates blood circulation to the extremities which invigorates the body and helps to excrete toxins and impurities.
Anti-oxidant: combats the buildup of free radicals in the system, which can slow the aging process and strengthen the immune system.
Anti-inflammatory: helps to reduce inflammation of joints and soft tissue, and eases inflammation of the internal organs due to high acidity, or chronic disease.
Detoxification: increased blood flow helps to move toxins through the system, where they are excreted through perspiration and urination.
Energy booster: provides an invigorating boost of energy to both mind and body.
Stimulant: combats fatigue, both physical and mental, providing an instant pick-me-up for those suffering from exhaustion or burn-out.
Pain relief: cinnamon leaf essential oil has warming properties that can help ease joint pain, and reduce the discomfort of tired, aching muscles.
Contraindications
Though considered less of an irritant than cinnamon bark oil, you should still use caution when using topically. Heed all recommended dilution factors and test on a small, insensitive area of the skin before applying liberally. Avoid contact with the eyes or mucous membranes, and keep out of reach of children. It should be noted that cinnamon leaf oil is not the same as the spice in your pantry, and is not recommended for internal use due to its high phenol content. Excessive quantities may be toxic: internal use should only be undertaken while under the care of a qualified practitioner who is certified in aromatherapy with essential oils. Do not use if you are pregnant as it may cause uterine spasms.
Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your physician before using this product.

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