Description
Cassia oil is extracted from Cinnamomum cassia (also known as C. aromaticum and Laurus cassia) of the Lauraceae family. It is also known as false cinnamon and cassia lignea.
Although cassia oil can be a skin irritant, it does have some good properties and this warm exotic oil is more than just a fragrant oil, as it can be used in fever, chills and for supporting the digestive system.
Oil properties
Cassia oil has a warm pungent smell.
Origin of Cassia oil
It is native to China and is also known as cassia bark or Chinese cinnamon. This slender, evergreen tree grows up to 20 meters (65 feet) high, with thick, leathery leaves and small white flowers. The flowers are followed by single-seeded berries the size of small olives. Cassia bark is widely used to flavor curries, in baked foods, candies and soft drinks.
Extraction
Cassia oil is extracted from the leaves, bark, twigs and stalks by steam distillation.
Chemical composition
The main chemical components of cassia oil are cinnamic aldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, benzaldehyde, linalool and chavicol.
Precautions
Cassia oil should not be used on the skin as it is a dermal irritant, dermal sensitizer and is a mucus membrane irritant. It must also be avoided in pregnancy.
Therapeutic Properties
The therapeutic properties of Cassia oil are carminative, anti-diarrhea, anti-microbial and anti-emetic.
Uses
Cassia as a dried herb can be useful for digestive complaints such as flatulence, colic, dyspepsia, diarrhea and nausea. It can also be used for colds, influenza, fevers, arthritis and rheumatism.
Summary
Cassia oil should not be used in massage therapy.
- Burners
- In vapor therapy cassia oil will assist with fevers, colds, flu, low vitality, chills and will also support the digestive system.
- In a cream
- Although cassia oil is a dermal irritant, it can be of benefit for arthritis and rheumatism if included in a formula at a very low inclusion rate.
