Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum and C. cassia Lauraceae)

Other Names: Ceylon Cinnamon, Chinese Cinnamon

This evergreen tree grows 5–8 meters tall, with rough, leathery leaves and tiny flowers arranged in inflorescences. Acorn-like berries develop from the flowers. The most commonly used species are Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) and Chinese cinnamon (C. cassia). Cinnamon has been a key element in traditional Indian medicine for over 5,000 years.

Parts for Use

Bark

1. Bark is collected every two years from trees at least eight years old.
2. Dried bark is used to prepare infusions, tinctures, and powders.
3. Distilling the bark produces an essential oil with a pepper-like aroma.

Ingredients

Both Ceylon and Chinese cinnamon bark contain about 2% essential oil, primarily cinnamaldehyde. Ceylon cinnamon also contains a small amount of eugenol, while Chinese cinnamon has only trace amounts.

Use in Treatment

Ceylon and Chinese cinnamon have similar properties. Cinnamon bark acts as an antispasmodic and stimulates salivary glands and gastric mucosa, aiding in the treatment of gastritis, digestive disorders, loss of appetite, nausea, bloating, diarrhea, and intestinal cramps. Its liquid extract may have a soothing effect on duodenal ulcers. A 1989 Japanese study found that Chinese cinnamon components improved blood flow in the digestive tract, supporting ulcer healing in rats. However, a 2000 Israeli study showed cinnamon extract had no effect on *Helicobacter pylori*, a common cause of stomach ulcers. Externally, cinnamon oil relieves cramps, joint pain, rheumatism, and neuralgia, and is a key ingredient in soothing massage balms like tiger balm. A 1994 Chinese study identified cinnamophilin, an anti-inflammatory compound in cinnamon. A 1995 Indian study confirmed cinnamaldehyde’s antifungal properties against respiratory infection-causing fungi. Cinnamon promotes body warmth, benefits circulation, supports respiratory and uterine function, stimulates estrogen production, and helps alleviate minor fatigue.

Cultivation

Cinnamon trees require temperatures above 15°C, well-drained soil, and a sunny location.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Gastritis, Digestive Problems, Loss of Appetite, Minor Fatigue)

1. Infusion: Add 1 gram of Chinese cinnamon bark or 0.5–1 gram of Ceylon cinnamon bark to a cup of boiling water, steep for 10 minutes, strain, and drink three cups daily.
2. Powder: Take 0.3–1 gram three times daily with food.
3. Liquid Extract: Dilute 0.5–1 ml in a glass of water and take three times daily.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, limit cinnamon intake to amounts typically found in food.
3. Cinnamon essential oil may cause skin allergies or stomach lining inflammation.
4. Use cinnamon oil only under the supervision of a qualified professional.