Cinnamon Leaf Oil: Essential Oils by Pyurvana™

What is Cinnamon Essential Oil?

Cinnamon leaf essential oil is a warm, spicy oil steam distilled from the leaves of Ceylon cinnamon, and it's a cozy favorite for fall and holiday diffuser blends. The Cinnamomum genus is made up of evergreen trees that have aromatic leaves and bark. Cinnamomum zeylanicum, also called Cinnamomum verum or true cinnamon, is one of the most recognizable of these species. Most of the cinnamon spice comes from this variety of tree. We distill our cinnamon essential oil from trees grown in Sri Lanka.

The spice cinnamon has been in existence since ancient times. Historians estimate that it was first obtained from the bark of Cinnamomum trees and used by the Ancient Egyptians as early as 2000 BC. The source of the spice was kept a secret for a long time to keep its value high. While the spice made from cinnamon bark may be more common, the leaves are often used similar to bay leaves to add flavor to curries or stews.

Cinnamon bark and cinnamon leaf can both be used to distill essential oil. Oil made from the bark tends to smell more similar to the spice. The main benefit of cinnamon leaf essential oil is that it contains a higher concentration of eugenol. To extract our cinnamon leaf oil, we use steam distillation. This involves placing cinnamon leaves into a large vat and introducing steam. This vaporizes the scent molecules in the leaves, which are then condensed, collected, and purified.

Complementary Scents

Cinnamon leaf oil is very similar to cinnamon bark oil in terms of its scent pairing. Mixing it with citrus oils such as lemon, bergamot, grapefruit, or orange can create a lovely contrast and an uplifting aroma. You can also try combining it with peppermint oil.

Primary Benefits

In very small amounts, cinnamon leaf adds a warm, spicy note to homemade massage oils and holiday body care. Always test on a small area first to check for sensitivity.

Cinnamon leaf and cinnamon bark have very similar aromas. Both can give your home an inviting and uplifting scent whether used alone or in a blend with other oils. This scent reminds many people of winter, so it’s a great way to evoke memories of the holiday season, no matter the time of year. This is especially true if you mix it with other oils such as clove and peppermint.

How to Use Cinnamon Essential Oil

Add a few drops to your essential oil diffuser, making sure to follow the directions for your unit. This will fill any room with the delightful scent of our cinnamon leaf oil. Make sure not to add too much or keep the diffuser running for longer than a few hours, as this may result in an overpowering aroma.

It is important to dilute any 100% pure essential oil with a carrier oil before applying it topically. This is especially true for cinnamon since it is stronger than many other oils. Cinnamon leaf is a strong oil that can irritate skin, so keep it very dilute, at about one drop per tablespoon of carrier oil, and patch test first. Some people have greater sensitivity to essential oils and allergies are also a potential concern. If you notice any adverse reaction, stop using the essential oil immediately and consult with your doctor.

Cinnamon Leaf Oil FAQs

What is the difference between cinnamon leaf and cinnamon bark oil?

Cinnamon leaf oil is rich in eugenol, so it smells spicy and a little like clove. Cinnamon bark oil is high in cinnamaldehyde, which gives it the sweeter, classic cinnamon scent. Leaf oil is also the gentler and more affordable of the two.

What is cinnamon leaf oil used for?

Most people diffuse it for a warm, cozy atmosphere, especially in fall and winter. It is also popular in homemade cleaning sprays and, in very small amounts, in massage oil blends.

Can you use cinnamon leaf oil on your skin?

Only when it is highly diluted. Cinnamon leaf can irritate or sensitize skin, so use about one drop per tablespoon of carrier oil, patch test first, and keep it away from your face and other sensitive areas.

What blends well with cinnamon leaf oil?

Cinnamon leaf pairs beautifully with sweet orange and clove for a classic holiday blend. It also works well with ginger, frankincense, and lemon.