Cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum verum) is in the laurel family (Lauraceae). It was mentioned four times in the Bible: Exodus 30:23; Song of Solomon 4:14; Revelations 18:13 and-
“I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes and cinnamon.” Proverbs 7:17
Cinnamon bark is high in Trans-Cinnamaldehyde-up to 40-50% making this a “hot” oil particularly to the skin.In ancient times cinnamon was used in holy anointing oils and perfume as well as having many culinary uses. It was one of the ingredients in the holy anointing oil blend given by God to Moses to anoint the whole people, the tabernacle, the altar and the vessels. It was used for a variety of physical complaints including colds, flu, digestive problems, menstrual problems, rheumatism, and kidney troubles. When you consider the fact that in ancient times there was no way to preserve food, spices like cinnamon did the job by killing off harmful bacteria.
Today cinnamon bark is one of the most powerful antibacterial, antiviral oils of all-even stronger than most antibiotics. this oil is a powerful antioxidant. It may also be beneficial for circulation, infections, coughs, exhaustion, respiratory infections, digestion, rheumatism, and warts. This is a warming oil for the spirit as well as for the body. It restores wakefulness in the presence of fatigue. It is vitalizing, refreshing as well as warming. The warm glow of cinnamon helps transform sorrow into happiness. For emotional healing, it is used to encourage invigoration, benevolence, strength, and energy.
Main effects include being a general tonic and an antiseptic; cinnamon bark also counteracts enzyme deficiency in digestive tract.
Cinnamon can be diffused, used topically, orally, or as incense but with caution. Never put cinnamon bark on or near one’s face. It can be blended in a massage oil as long as it is well diluted. If diffusing-be careful not to smell directly from the diffuser since cinnamon is so strong it could irritate the inside lining of the nose. Cinnamon mixes well with clove, nutmeg, ylang ylang, mandarin, orange, lemon, grapefruit, benzoin, rose, coriander, geranium, ginger, lemongrass, patchouli, and petitgrain.
Cinnamon leaf oil is relatively non-toxic essential oil but the bark oil may be hot due to its higher aldehyde ingredient. Always recommended to dilute with a carrier such as a good vegetable or massage oil before applying to the skin. Caution is also recommended in diffusing this oil. Do not inhale directly from the diffuser since it may irritate the nasal membranes. Cinnamon bark oil can also be used as a culinary oil but since it is so potent-one drop is all that is needed in most recipes.
To learn more about Cinnamon Bark oil and other ancient essential oils you might want to consider becoming a certified aromatherapist. Educational courses in healing energy and aromatherapy can help you understand how essential oils heal the body/mind/spirit.
Author:Linda Lee Smith
http://www.ISHAaromatherapy.com For educational courses on healing energy and the laying-on of hands, you can go to http://www.HTSpiritualMinistry.com You can also read more about aromatherapy and Cinnamon Bark essential oil in Linda Smith’s books: Called into Healing, Reclaiming our Judeo-Christian Legacy of Healing Touch, and Healing Oils Healing Hands, Discovering the Power of Prayer, Hands On Healing and Anointing. You can find these books and much more on my web site at http://www.ISHAhealing.com/HealingStore/tabid/348/Default.aspx
