Cinnamon Leaf
Cinnamomum verum
A safer alternative to cinnamon bark oil, still warm and spicy but with eugenol as its primary constituent rather than cinnamaldehyde, allowing higher dilutions.
Aroma Profile
Warm, spicy, slightly clove-like aroma with a less intense cinnamon character than bark oil. More herbaceous and less sweet.
Strength: strong
Get Personalized Safety Info
Sign in and complete your health profile to see safety warnings personalized to your age, sex, medications, conditions, and allergies for this essential oil.
Therapeutic Properties
Chemistry
Primary Constituents
Eugenol (68-87%), Beta-caryophyllene (2-6%), Linalool (1-5%), Cinnamaldehyde (1-5%), Benzyl benzoate (1-5%)
Emotional & Psychological
Cinnamon leaf is warming and stimulating, though less intensely so than bark oil. It provides emotional warmth and comfort, helping overcome lethargy and emotional coldness. It supports motivation and drive with a gentler approach than its bark counterpart.
Physical Therapeutic Uses
Effective antimicrobial due to high eugenol content, similar to clove bud oil. Provides pain relief for dental pain and muscular aches. Its warming properties support circulation and digestive health. A more practical choice than bark oil for topical applications.
Safety Profile
Contraindications
Skin irritant — always dilute to 0.6% maximum for topical use. Avoid during pregnancy. Avoid on damaged or sensitive skin and mucous membranes.
Drug Interactions
May enhance anticoagulant effects (eugenol inhibits platelet aggregation). May interact with diabetes medications.
Pet Safety Notes
Toxic to cats (eugenol). Avoid around all pets.
Application Methods
How to Use This Oil
middle note — the heart of a blend. Provides body and balance. Emerges after the top note fades.
Common Ways to Use
Diffusion
Add 3-5 drops to a diffuser with water. Run for 30-60 minutes at a time with breaks. Ensure good ventilation.
Topical Application
Dilute to 0.6% in a carrier oil (jojoba, sweet almond, or coconut). Apply to desired area. Always patch test first.
Direct Inhalation
Add 1-2 drops to a tissue or personal inhaler. Breathe in gently. Good for quick relief and on-the-go use.
Massage
Blend at 0.6% dilution in a massage carrier oil. Apply with gentle strokes to the desired area.