Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil (CBEO) is derived from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum zeylanicum or Cinnamomum cassia tree via steam distillation. This potent extract contains a very high concentration of cinnamaldehyde, typically ranging from 60% to 90%. This aromatic compound gives the oil its intense, warm, and spicy aroma. CBEO is one of the most powerful essential oils available, and its concentrated nature demands extreme caution in application.
Essential Safety Precautions for Cinnamon Bark Oil
Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil is a known dermal irritant and sensitizer, meaning it can cause skin redness, inflammation, or an allergic reaction upon contact. Due to this high-risk profile, the oil must never be applied directly to the skin in its undiluted form. Applying the oil without a carrier substance can result in chemical burns or severe skin tissue damage. Sensitization, a delayed allergic reaction, can develop over time, making safe dilution protocols non-negotiable.
The oil is also a significant mucous membrane irritant. Contact with sensitive internal linings, including the eyes and nasal passages, must be avoided entirely, as it will cause severe burning and irritation. If accidental eye contact occurs, the area should be rinsed cautiously with water for several minutes while removing contact lenses.
Ingesting cinnamon bark oil is strongly discouraged because the concentrated compounds can cause significant irritation and damage to the mucosal lining of the digestive tract. This highly concentrated oil is not interchangeable with the culinary cinnamon powder used in cooking. Consumers should never attempt to take CBEO internally without the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. When using this oil for aromatic purposes, diffusion duration should be limited to prevent irritation of the respiratory tract. Proper ventilation is necessary, especially in small or unventilated spaces, to avoid discomfort for those with respiratory sensitivities, children, or pets.
Methods for Aromatic Use
Aromatic use of Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil involves inhalation and environmental scenting, which can be accomplished safely with proper technique. The most common method involves using a cold-air or ultrasonic diffuser, which disperses a fine mist of the oil into the air. Due to the oil’s potency, a very small number of drops—often only one or two—is sufficient for a standard-sized room.
To prevent respiratory irritation, the oil should be diffused for short intervals, such as 15 to 30 minutes, followed by a long break of an hour or more. Limiting the duration of exposure helps ensure the air does not become oversaturated with the strong aromatic compounds. Diffusing CBEO can help create a warm, inviting atmosphere and may also be used to scent the environment for its antimicrobial properties.
For direct inhalation, such as for quick sensory stimulation, the oil should be applied to a cotton ball or a personal inhaler. The oil should be kept a safe distance from the nasal lining to prevent irritation of the delicate mucous membranes. Cinnamon bark blends well with other essential oils like sweet orange, clove, ginger, and frankincense, which can create complex and pleasing environmental scents.
Guidelines for Topical Application
Topical application requires mandatory and precise dilution with a carrier oil to mitigate the risk of skin irritation and sensitization. The high concentration of cinnamaldehyde makes Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil a “hot” oil, necessitating a much lower maximum dilution rate than is typical for other oils. For general use on large surface areas of the body, the maximum recommended dilution for CBEO is extremely low, generally 0.5% or less.
This 0.5% dilution translates to approximately one drop of cinnamon bark oil for every two teaspoons of a carrier oil. For application on sensitive skin, such as the face, or for use on children over ten years old, the dilution should be even lower, at 0.1% or less. Using a carrier oil, such as Fractionated Coconut, Jojoba, or Sweet Almond oil, is necessary because it physically separates the concentrated essential oil molecules, slowing absorption and reducing the chance of an adverse skin reaction.
Before applying a new diluted blend to a larger area, a patch test must be performed. This involves applying a small amount of the fully diluted oil to an inconspicuous patch of skin, such as the inner forearm. The tested area should be monitored for at least 24 hours for any signs of reaction, including redness, itching, burning, or a rash. If no reaction occurs, the diluted blend can then be used more widely for purposes such as warming massage for joint discomfort or blending into household cleaning solutions.