Popularly used as a “flavouring agent” in several alcoholic beverages is an essential oil known as Cinnamon Oil. This oil is extracted from the inner bark of a tree species belonging to a genus called “Cinnamomum” in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil is extracted from the bark initially by “pounding”, then “macerating” the extract in sea water, and finally “distilling” it. In addition, this oil is basically “golden-yellow” in colour and also consists of a strong aroma.
A. Chemical constituents of the Cinnamon Oil:
This oil is extracted from the inner bark of a tree species belonging to the genus “Cinnamomum” in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this essential oil consists of about 80 organic compounds. In addition, eugenol and cinamaldehyde comprise of the major chemical compounds available in this oil.
B. The use and benefits of the Cinnamon Oil:
There are a number of benefits that usage of this oil provides for. However, one should also consider the adverse reactions or side effects reported from its use:
1. Anti-inflammatory:
This oil possesses properties that inhibit pain produced by inflammation of the joint and muscles, and thereby serves as an anti-inflammatory agent.
2. Antiviral:
This oil when used can also inhibit the growth of viruses, treat viral infections such as bronchitis, and thereby serve as an antiviral agent.
3. Antidepressant:
This oil when used can exhibit properties that can stimulate the nervous system and help resolve serious mental disorders such as depression.
4. Aphrodisiac:
“Stimulation of sexual desire” is also what this oil promotes when used, and thereby serves as an “aphrodisiac”.
5. Anti-parasitic:
This oil also possesses curative properties that help in clearing organisms such as helminthes, amoeba, parasitic fungi, and protozoa from within the gastrointestinal system.
C. The adverse reactions of the Cinnamon Oil:
Apart from the benefits that this oil provides, there are a few adverse reactions too that must be noted. They are as follows:
- This oil when used may cause nausea, stomach pain, or diarrhea.
- This oil when used may also cause allergies especially in those individuals that possess sensitive skin.
