Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil (Cinnamomum verum)

Steam-distilled essential oil from the leaves of Cinnamomum verum, Ceylon Cinnamon. Unlike Cinnamon Bark oil (which is dominated by cinnamaldehyde), Cinnamon Leaf oil is dominated by eugenol - the same compound that gives cloves their characteristic warming aroma. The leaf oil is more clove-like in character than the bark oil and is typically more affordable.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon Cinnamon)

Plant part

Leaves (distinct from bark oil)

Extraction

Steam distillation

Primary compound

Eugenol (70-90%)

Aromatic character

Warm, spicy, clove-like - distinct from Cinnamon Bark oil

Distinct from

Cinnamon Bark oil (dominated by cinnamaldehyde) and Cassia Bark oil (very high cinnamaldehyde)

Cinnamon Leaf vs Cinnamon Bark vs Cassia

Three different "cinnamon" essential oils are produced with very different compound profiles. Ceylon Cinnamon Bark oil (from Cinnamomum verum bark): dominated by cinnamaldehyde, delicate and complex. Cassia Bark oil (from Cinnamomum cassia bark): exceptionally high cinnamaldehyde (80%+), strong skin irritant. Ceylon Cinnamon Leaf oil (this product, from Cinnamomum verum leaves): eugenol-dominant, more clove-like, generally more affordable than bark oils.

Important Safety Information

Cinnamon Leaf oil contains substantial eugenol - a skin irritant and sensitizer. Always dilute heavily before topical use (0.5-1% maximum in carrier oil). Eugenol can cause sensitization with repeated use even when diluted. Avoid use during pregnancy, with infants, or on sensitive skin. Do not use in baths.

How to Use Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil

Diffusion: 1-3 drops in a diffuser (potent - small amounts go a long way). Holiday potpourri: a drop on cinnamon sticks or pine cones for warm holiday aroma. Perfumery: a warm spicy note in blends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Cinnamon Leaf and Cinnamon Bark oil?
Different parts of the same tree with different compound profiles. Bark is cinnamaldehyde-dominant; leaf is eugenol-dominant.

Why is Cinnamon Leaf oil more clove-like?
The eugenol dominance - eugenol is the same compound that gives cloves their warming aroma.

Is it safer than Cinnamon Bark or Cassia oil?
Still a strong skin irritant but generally less than Cassia oil (which has extremely high cinnamaldehyde).

Why is it more affordable?
Cinnamon leaves are a byproduct of cinnamon bark harvest; the leaf oil is typically more affordable than the bark oil.

Can I use it for baking?
By expert use only; essential oil is dramatically more concentrated than the spice.

Is it safe during pregnancy?
No; not recommended.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.