While the oil is primarily known to benefit hair, its uses for skin and health are also getting popular. For instance, in a study, cinnamon oil had shown anti-cancer activity against the cancerous cells of the neck and head. In an organ model, it also reduced the growth of the tumor (1). Here, we discuss the health benefits of cinnamon essential oil, along with its preparation and uses. Continue reading further to know more.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Cinnamon Essential Oil?
Cinnamon essential oil (CEO) contains important compounds that may promote heart health and aid diabetes treatment. Its antioxidant properties may help prevent cancer and combat skin inflammation. In aromatherapy, the oil can help treat stress and boost alertness.
1. May Promote Heart Health
Cinnamon oil may help reduce cholesterol levels and combat oxidative stress. It reduced the cholesterol levels in broiler chickens (2). In another study, cinnamon oil was found to exhibit superoxide dismutase-like activity (an enzyme that helps the body combat oxidative stress) (3).
2. May Aid Diabetes Treatment
Research suggests that cinnamon oil may help regulate blood glucose levels. This may help individuals with diabetes. In a study, a mixture of essential oils (including cinnamon oil) helped lower the levels of circulating glucose (4). In another mice study, cinnamon oil was found to have a regulative role in blood glucose levels. It also improved the functioning of pancreatic islets (a group of cells in the pancreas that release hormones, including insulin). The study also saw an improved glucose tolerance in mice (5). Thus, cinnamon oil may be useful in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
3. May Aid Cancer Treatment
The cinnamon essential oil showed anticancer activity against cancers of the prostate, lung, and breast (6). In studies, cinnamon essential oil exhibited significant anticancer activity against head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells. The oil could achieve this by suppressing a specific cancer protein called EGFR-TK (1).
4. May Work As An Aphrodisiac
In animal studies, the cinnamon essential oil was found to boost sexual motivation and sperm count. Administration of cinnamon bark oil significantly increased sperm concentration in rats. However, it also decreased abnormal sperm count (7). Cinnamomum, another species from the same family as cinnamon, may also have similar effects. Extracts of cinnamon were found to increase the weight of testes and seminal vesicles (glands that secrete semen) in male mice. The study indicates a possible hormonal stimulation in mice (8). However, there is no evidence that cinnamon essential oil can exhibit the same effects. In another study, consumption of cinnamon bark oil was found to protect the reproductive system of male rats. The oil could also improve testosterone and sperm quality in the rats (9).
5. May Treat Ulcers
The oil may help fight the bacteria that cause ulcers. Cinnamon bark essential oil was found to be the most potent (among other oils) against Helicobacter pylori. H. pylori is the major cause of gastric ulcers and gastric cancer (10). Increased density of the bacteria in the gastric mucosa can aggravate gastritis. It may also increase the risk of peptic ulcers (10).
6. May Help Treat Fungal Infections
The cinnamon essential oil may help treat fungal infections, including candida. In certain cases, it could be more effective than antifungal medications. In a study, cinnamon essential oil (along with a few others) was found to have the most potent antimicrobial properties among those tested (11). Cinnamon oil has also been reported to be effective against various molds and yeasts. It may also have a beneficial effect against Candida (which could be resistant to fluconazole, an antifungal medication) (12).
7. May Help Manage Stress
Aromatherapy has been found to help manage stress and depressive symptoms. Aromatherapy massage using essential oils was found to be more effective than inhalation aromatherapy (13). In a study on college students, the use of cinnamon essential oil in aromatherapy was found to increase alertness and perception and reduce frustration (14).
8. May Enhance Skin Health
Cinnamon bark essential oil may help treat skin inflammation and other related skin conditions. However, we need more research to determine its clinical efficacy and safety (15). Cinnamon bark essential oil is rich in cinnamaldehyde, which demonstrated the potential in treating skin disorders. The oil can inhibit the production of several proteins involved in skin inflammation (15). Using cinnamon oil to avail its benefits is simple. There are different ways you can use the oil, and you may choose the one that suits you the most.
How To Use Cinnamon Oil?
You can use the oil topically, orally, and in aromatherapy.
Topically – Dilute it with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) in a 1:1 ratio and apply it to your skin. Orally – Add a drop of water to the oil and ingest it. You can also take it as a dietary supplement by consuming it along with a smoothie. In aromatherapy – Inhale it or diffuse it around your house using a diffuser.
Cinnamon essential oil is generally recognized as safe by the US Food & Drug Administration (16). You may prepare cinnamon essential oil at home. The method is inexpensive. You may have to wait for a few weeks, though, before you can use the essential oil.
How To Prepare Cinnamon Essential Oil At Home
What You Need
A bunch of cinnamon sticks 1 liter of olive oil A cheesecloth
Directions It is important to understand the type of cinnamon you want to use. Cinnamon is available in different types, and they aren’t the same.
What Are The Different Types of Cinnamon Oil?
Cinnamon essential oil is available in two types – cinnamon leaf essential oil, and cinnamon bark essential oil. While cinnamon leaf essential oil is made when the leaves go through a distillation process, cinnamon bark essential oil is made when the bark goes through the same. The leaf oil has a higher content of eugenol, while the bark oil is rich in cinnamaldehyde. These two compounds have certain medicinal properties (17). Cinnamon bark essential oil is the most commonly available type of the variant in the market. This is taken from the bark of any of the two different tree species – cassia or Ceylon. While cassia cinnamon is more common of the two, it also is higher in coumarin – a natural chemical that can be toxic to the liver (18). Ceylon cinnamon has far less concentration of coumarin and is comparatively safer. Coumarin could also be carcinogenic (19). Though expensive, Ceylon cinnamon is the preferred option. If you are preparing cinnamon essential oil at home, ensure you use Ceylon cinnamon. The type is easy to identify – it is softer and lighter and is rolled in multiple layers. Other cinnamon types, including cassia, are darker, hard, and rolled only in one layer (19). If you are purchasing cinnamon oil, ensure it is made from Ceylon cinnamon. You may check the bottle. Wondering where to buy cinnamon oil? You can get it from your nearest health store or online. However, cinnamon essential oil may not be suitable for all. It has certain contraindications and side effects.
What Are The Side Effects Of Cinnamon Oil?
Possible Skin Issues
The coumarin content in the essential oil (though quite less, if you are using oil from Ceylon cinnamon) may trigger certain skin issues. In both human and rat skin, coumarin absorption was found to be significant. Skin contact with coumarin-containing products could lead to systemic coumarin absorption (20). Coumarin may also cause skin irritation (21). Please do a patch test before using the oil on your skin. Also, do not apply the oil directly. Mix it with a carrier oil.
May Lower Blood Sugar Way Too Much
Cinnamon essential oil may lower blood glucose levels (4). Though there are no direct studies yet, using the oil along with your diabetes medications may lower your blood sugar levels way too much. If you are on diabetes medication, please check with your doctor if you can ingest cinnamon essential oil.
May Affect The Liver
Coumarin may affect the liver. Though there is no information if cinnamon essential oil may affect the liver, it is important to be on the safe side. If you have liver issues, please refrain from consuming the essential oil and consult your doctor.
Does Cinnamon Oil Interact With Any Medications?
Individuals with liver conditions, especially when taking paracetamol, are suggested to refrain from consuming cinnamon bark oil. The cinnamaldehyde in the oil is known to deplete glutathione, which is a substance naturally produced by the liver (22). If you are on diabetes medication, we suggest you speak to your doctor before consuming cinnamon essential oil. How else can you use cinnamon essential oil? Cinnamon essential oil can be used for cooking. You can try replacing a quarter cup of your normal cooking oil with a quarter cup of cinnamon oil. You can also use the oil as a salad dressing to impart a unique flavor. You can also use the oil as a mosquito repellent. Some studies show it can destroy mosquito eggs (23). Simply mix ¼ teaspoon (24 drops) of the oil for every 4 ounces of water. You can then spray this mixture around your home, upholstery, and plants. Can cinnamon oil burn your skin? Yes, the coumarin in the oil may cause skin irritation. Excess use may cause burns, though there is no scientific research to support this. Hence, use the oil with caution. Is cinnamon oil good for hair growth? There is no research stating that cinnamon oil may promote hair growth. But if you want to try it out, we suggest you consult your doctor first. Is cinnamon oil good for weight loss? There is no scientific backing stating that it may aid weight loss. Can you put cinnamon oil on your lips? Cinnamon oil is commonly applied on the lips to make them look plumper and more puckered up. How long does cinnamon oil last? It may last for 3–4 years if stored away from direct sunlight and heat in a dark colored vial or bottle. However, essential oils change over time and are best used before the date of expiry mentioned on the label. Does cinnamon oil repel bugs? Yes. Research suggests that eugenol, an active ingredient in cinnamon essential oil, can repel mosquitos and other bugs quite effectively due to its pungency (24).
