Cinnamon

Cinnamomum zeylanicum

Warming, Steadfast, Direct, 
Energised, Strengthening, Gregarious, Vital, Truthful
RED HOT
The aroma of cinnamon essential oil is unmistakable and its energy is strong, direct, and to the point. It emanates that hearth-fire type of warmth and strength, but demands that we make choices. Best in small doses, if you are attracted to cinnamon you may need to make a firm choice and take direct action. Or, you may be in need of a strong boost to your confidence and self-belief. 

THE FACTS
Cinnamon essential oil is steam or water distilled from the leaves, twigs and dried inner bark. In aromatherapy we most commonly work with the leaf oil. It can be overpowering and harsh on the skin so is used very sparingly. I very much enjoy adding it to room sprays, though!

Clinically speaking, cinnamon is useful for gum health, insect bites and stings and when you want to create a stimulating action. In my own practice, it has been useful to help people "jump start" after a long convalescence. Interestingly, the hydrosol can be very effective for that "get up and go" feeling, is less harsh, and also tastes delicious in a cup of coffee. 

DRIVING ENERGY
The driving energy of cinnamon is, "direction". It helps us to make choices and take action, but in a way where we feel glad to do so. It keeps the fire in our hearts burning, and motions for that "inner director" in us all to stand up and be confident in who we are and what we are capable of. 

MYTH AND ARCHETYPE
Cinnamon and cassia were often interchangeable in the ancient world, though they are distinctly different plants. It was given as an offering to Ramses III and is also mentioned several times in the Bible. Aphrodite is said to have worn a belt that diffused the scent of cinnamon. The archetype for cinnamon is the "Promoter". The Promoter is all about movement, connection and being in that extroverted flow. Promoters influence the choices that people make, and a key part of their charm is their direct and gregarious nature. 

WANT MORE? 
Are you curious to learn more about how to safely and effectively use cinnamon essential oil? You can sign up for my free newsletter to stay informed about upcoming classes and videos! No spam or endless salesy emails, pinkie swear!

Or, book with me and be sure to ask  about how to incorporate cinnamon into your appointment! ​
References:
Aromatherapy for the Soul, Worwood, 1999
Aromatherapy and Subtle Energy Techniques, Keim and Bull, 2015
The Complete Aromatherapy and Essential Oils Handbook for Everyday Wellness, Puchon and Cantele, 2014
The Encyclopaedia of Essential oils, Lawless, 2014
Essential Oil Safety, Tisserand and Young, 2016
The Fragrant Mind, Worwood, 1997
Hydrosols, The Next Aromatherapy, Catty, 2001
Portraits in Oils, Mailhebiau, 1995