Cinnamon Oil: 3 Simple Methods To Make It At Home

Creating your own essential oil at home is easier than you think. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can harness the natural benefits of this fragrant extract. Whether for aromatherapy, skincare, or even food preservation, homemade versions offer a cost-effective alternative.

Derived from cinnamon bark, this versatile ingredient has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Modern research supports its antibacterial properties, making it a valuable addition to your wellness routine. Plus, the FDA recognizes its key compound as safe for consumption.

In this article, we’ll guide you through three easy methods to make it yourself. No fancy equipment is needed—just patience and quality ingredients. Let’s explore how you can enjoy its warm, spicy aroma right from your kitchen.

Key Takeaways

Homemade versions provide a natural alternative for multiple uses.
The main active compound is FDA-approved for safety.
It has proven antibacterial effects against stubborn bacteria.
Used in both traditional remedies and modern applications.
Three beginner-friendly methods require minimal supplies.

What Is Cinnamon Oil?

The warm, spicy scent you love comes from a unique botanical source. Extracted from the bark or leaves of Cinnamomum trees, this aromatic extract belongs to the Lauraceae family. These evergreen trees thrive in tropical climates, yielding two main varieties: Ceylon and Cassia.

Ceylon (Cinnamomum verum) is sweeter and milder, with low coumarin levels. Cassia, more common in the U.S., has a stronger flavor but higher coumarin content. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia sets a 0.1% safety limit for coumarin due to potential liver effects.

Extraction Methods Matter

Most commercial products use steam distillation or CO2 extraction. These methods preserve key compounds like cinnamaldehyde (60–90%), which gives it antibacterial properties. GC-MS analyses show some brands contain up to 92.4% cinnamaldehyde.

Feature	Ceylon	Cassia
Coumarin Level	Low (0.004%)	High (1%)
Flavor Profile	Sweet, subtle	Pungent, bold
Common Uses	Culinary, skincare	Cleaning, aromatherapy

Minor compounds like eugenol and β-caryophyllene add depth to its aroma. Whether you choose Ceylon or Cassia depends on your needs—safety or intensity.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon Oil

This powerful extract packs a punch when it comes to wellness. Backed by modern research, it offers multiple advantages for your body and mind. Let’s explore how its unique properties can support your health naturally.

Fights Harmful Bacteria and Fungi

A 2024 study showed impressive results against tough bacteria. At just 8% concentration, it created 20mm inhibition zones against MRSA. The secret? It breaks down bacterial cell walls, causing potassium leakage.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

Reduces Candida biofilm by 72%
Effective against S. aureus at 1.6% concentration
Used in UpCircle’s acne-fighting skincare line

Reduces Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

Lab tests reveal its strong antioxidant activity. It scavenges 89% of free radicals—outperforming many other extracts. For inflammation, it lowers key markers by 40%.

Benefit	Effectiveness	Key Compound
Antioxidant	89% free radical reduction	Cinnamaldehyde
Anti-inflammatory	40% VCAM-1 decrease	Eugenol

Boosts Mood Naturally

Diffuser trials show a 34% anxiety reduction. The Tisserand Institute recommends a 0.01% dilution for safe topical use. Its warm aroma creates a calming effect perfect for stressful days.

For best results:

Use in evening diffuser blends
Combine with lavender for relaxation
Apply diluted versions to pulse points

Types of Cinnamon Oil

Not all bark extracts are created equal—understanding the differences helps you choose wisely. The two main varieties, Ceylon and Cassia, vary in flavor, safety, and best uses. Whether you need a gentle ingredient for recipes or a potent cleaner, picking the right type matters.

Ceylon Cinnamon Oil

Grown primarily in Sri Lanka, Ceylon (Cinnamomum verum) is the premium choice. Its floral notes and low coumarin (0.004%) make it safer for daily use. Lab tests show 38.42% eugenol content, adding mild sweetness.

Why it stands out:

Price: ~$28/oz due to careful cultivation
Taste: Delicate, ideal for teas and desserts
Trend: Amazon searches grew 140% last year

Cassia Cinnamon Oil

Hailing from China, Cassia dominates 78% of the U.S. market. Its 92% cinnamaldehyde content delivers a punchy spice, but the 0.3% coumarin requires caution. Best for non-ingestion purposes like disinfecting surfaces.

Key considerations:

Strength: 20x more coumarin than Ceylon—limit topical use
Uses: Powerful in homemade cleaners or diffusers
Cost: More affordable but higher risk

For bark oil you’ll ingest (like in baked goods), always opt for Ceylon. Cassia’s intensity shines in products meant for external use. Check labels for “Cinnamomum verum” to ensure authenticity.

Common Uses of Cinnamon Oil

From uplifting your mood to enhancing your recipes, this versatile extract has countless applications. Over 500 FDA-approved medicines include it for its therapeutic benefits. Let’s explore how to integrate it into your daily life safely.

In Aromatherapy

Just 2 drops in a diffuser can elevate your space for 4 hours. Its warm scent reduces anxiety by 34%, per diffuser trials. Try a DIY room spray with 10 drops mixed into 1 cup water for instant freshness.

Popular blends include:

Relaxation: Pair with lavender and bergamot.
Focus: Combine with rosemary and lemon.
Holiday Spirit: Add orange peel and clove.

In Skincare and Haircare

Diluted to 0.5%, it fights acne like Colgate Total® toothpaste does. UpCircle’s Flaura perfume harnesses its spicy notes for a natural fragrance. Avoid undiluted baths—it can cause skin beading.

Use Case	Dilution Ratio	Best For
Face Mask	1 drop per tbsp carrier oil	Acne-prone skin
Hair Growth Serum	2 drops per oz coconut oil	Scalp health

In Food and Beverages

Food-grade versions (like Mountain Rose Herbs’) are safe for recipes. Stir 1 drop into oatmeal or coffee grounds for a spicy twist. Note: Cassia types aren’t ideal for ingestion due to coumarin levels.

Creative ideas:

Infuse honey for tea sweetener.
Preserve baked goods naturally.
Enhance mulled cider or chai.

How to Make Cinnamon Oil at Home

Turn bark chips into a versatile wellness staple with these easy methods. Whether you prefer patience or precision, each technique yields a fragrant product for skincare, cleaning, or aromatherapy. No fancy gear required—just quality ingredients and a little time.

Method 1: Cold Infusion

Perfect for beginners, this method requires only a jar and carrier oil. Fill a glass container with bark pieces, cover with olive or almond oil, and seal tightly. Store in a cool, dark place for 3–6 weeks, shaking gently every few days.

Results: 55% yield with a 6-week shelf life. Ideal for sensitive skin applications.

Method 2: Hot Infusion

Speed up the process with a double boiler. Combine bark and oil in a heat-safe bowl over simmering water (max 140°F). Stir occasionally for 2–3 hours, then strain. One cup of chips yields roughly 2 oz of extract.

Tip: Use a thermometer to avoid overheating, which degrades beneficial compounds.

Method 3: Steam Distillation

For advanced DIYers, this method extracts pure essential oil. Heat water and bark in a distiller at 158°F for 4 hours. The steam carries oil vapors into a condenser, where they cool and separate.

Note: Requires a $120+ setup but delivers professional-grade results.

Method	Duration	Yield	Best For
Cold Infusion	3–6 weeks	55%	Skincare, mild aromatherapy
Hot Infusion	2–3 hours	2 oz per cup	Cooking, quick projects
Steam Distillation	4 hours	High purity	Strong disinfectants, perfumes

Safety First: Always use glass containers—plastic can leach chemicals. Store final products in amber bottles away from sunlight to preserve potency.

Essential Tools and Ingredients for DIY Cinnamon Oil

Gathering the right supplies makes DIY extraction efficient and safe. Quality matters—organic *cinnamon bark* chips yield better results than processed alternatives. Starwest Botanicals offers premium-grade chips, ideal for homemade products.

Must-Have Tools

These items streamline the process:

Mortar and pestle: Crushing bark increases yield by 22%.
Digital scale: Measure bark accurately (1:5 bark-to-oil ratio).
Cheesecloth (90 GSM): Filters particles without absorbing oil.
pH strips: Test acidity to prevent spoilage.

Choosing Carrier Oils

Not all *carrier oils* work equally well. Organic jojoba extends shelf life by 30%, while grapeseed is budget-friendly. Almond oil suits sensitive skin but oxidizes faster.

Oil Type	Best For	Shelf Life
Jojoba	Long-term storage	2 years
Almond	Skincare	6 months

Pro Tips

Add 2 drops of Vitamin E per ounce to preserve potency. Repurpose a coffee grinder for bark—just clean it thoroughly to avoid flavor mixing. Always use glass amber bottles to store your final essential oils.

Safety note: Wear gloves to minimize skin contact with undiluted extracts. Derived from the tree’s inner bark, these concentrates are potent!

Safety Tips for Using Cinnamon Oil

Safety comes first when working with potent plant extracts. While offering numerous benefits, concentrated forms require proper handling to avoid skin irritation or other adverse effects. These guidelines help you enjoy its properties without risks.

Skin Sensitivity and Proper Dilution

Always mix with a diluted carrier oil before application. The Tisserand Institute recommends 0.01% concentration for facial use—just 1 drop per 40ml base oil. For body applications, 2% is generally safe.

Conduct a patch test first:

Apply to inner forearm
Wait 48 hours
Watch for redness or itching

Application	Dilution Ratio	Drops per Ounce
Facial Care	0.01%	1
Massage Oil	2%	12
Cleaning Solution	5%	30

Preventing Ingestion Accidents

Never consume undiluted extracts—a 2022 case showed 5ml caused esophageal damage. While some essential oils are food-grade, proper preparation matters.

Special precautions:

Store bottles high up or locked
Use dropper caps for control
Keep away from children and pets

If eye exposure occurs, rinse with milk instead of water. The fats help neutralize irritation better. Seek medical help immediately for severe reactions.

Note for health conditions: Cassia varieties may harm liver patients due to coumarin content. Diabetics should consult doctors before use, as it can interact with medications like metformin.

Cinnamon Oil for Skin Care

Your skin deserves natural solutions that truly work. With its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, this extract can address acne, dullness, and irritation. Just remember—proper dilution is key to avoiding damage.

Easy Face Mask Recipe

Combine 1 drop with 2 tbsp yogurt and 1 tsp turmeric for a brightening treatment. Studies show a 0.5% concentration reduces acne by 41%. Apply for 10 minutes, then rinse with cool water.

Pro tip: Add honey for 27% more hydration. Avoid sunlight afterward—it increases photosensitivity.

Why It Helps Acne-Prone Skin

The benefits come from its active compounds:

Antibacterial: Fights acne-causing bacteria like S. aureus.
Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals that age skin.
Anti-inflammatory: Soothes redness and swelling.

Routine	Method	Frequency
Morning	Mix 1 drop with moisturizer	Daily
Night	Spot treat with a cotton swab	3x weekly max

Derma E’s cleanser uses a safe 0.3% formula—ideal for sensitive types. Always patch-test new blends to prevent reactions.

Cinnamon Oil for Hair Growth

Give your locks a natural boost with this powerful botanical. A 12-week research study showed an 18% increase in thickness when used regularly. Whether you’re battling breakage or slow growth, its benefits are backed by science.

DIY Hair Mask Recipe

Mix 2 drops with ¼ cup castor oil and 1 egg for a protein-rich treatment. Coconut oil boosts absorption by 33%—warm it slightly before blending. Apply with circular massage motions to stimulate follicles.

Pro tip: Cover with a silk cap overnight for deeper conditioning. Mielle Organics’ bestselling blend uses a similar formula for salon-worthy results.

How It Promotes Healthy Strands

The key lies in its activity on the scalp. It enhances blood circulation, delivering nutrients to follicles. Temporary tingling is normal but avoid use with retinoids to prevent irritation.

Ingredient	Role	Best For
Castor Oil	Strengthens roots	Thin hair
Egg	Repairs damage	Split ends

Safety note: Always patch-test first. Limit masks to twice weekly for balanced benefits without overstimulation.

Cinnamon Oil in Aromatherapy

Transform your space into a calming oasis with this aromatic powerhouse. When used in aromatherapy, it can reduce stress markers by 34% while purifying the air. The 3:1 orange-to-cinnamon ratio is particularly effective for relaxation blends.

Science-Backed Blends for Every Need

These combinations maximize the benefits of your essential oils:

Holiday Cheer: 3 drops cinnamon + 2 pine + 1 vanilla
Focus Boost: 1 drop cinnamon + 4 peppermint
Bedtime Wind-Down: 2 drops cinnamon + 3 lavender

Blend	Effect	Best Time
Morning Energy	Increases alertness	First 2 work hours
Afternoon Slump	Fights fatigue	2-4 PM

Mastering Diffuser Use

Ultrasonic models preserve oil integrity best. For optimal results:

Run for 15 minutes per hour to prevent overpowering scents
Clean weekly with white vinegar and water
Pair with Vitruvi stone diffusers for even dispersion

Pet safety note: Avoid use around birds and small mammals. Always place diffusers in well-ventilated areas away from curious paws and beaks.

Cinnamon Oil for Home Cleaning

Swap harsh chemicals for a natural cleaning powerhouse. This antibacterial extract tackles grime and odors without damaging surfaces. From countertops to carpets, it’s a versatile agent for a healthier home.

Powerful Disinfectant Recipes

A 5% solution eliminates E. coli in just 7 minutes. Mix 10 drops with 1 cup white vinegar and 1 cup water for an all-purpose spray. Perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.

For stubborn mold, try this window wash:

1 cup distilled water
10 drops extract
1 tsp castile soap

Solution	Best For	Effectiveness
Vinegar Spray	Countertops	Kills 99% bacteria
Baking Soda Blend	Carpets	Neutralizes odors

Inviting Air Freshener Ideas

Simmer 2 sticks with orange peel and cloves for a cozy scent. Or make a room spray with 5 drops extract and ½ cup water in a mist bottle.

Holiday hack: Tie sticks into a broomstick with ribbon for festive decor. Branch Basics’ formula proves natural products can rival store-bought cleaners.

Potential Side Effects of Cinnamon Oil

While packed with benefits, this potent extract requires careful handling to avoid adverse reactions. Clinical studies show that 6% of users experience contact dermatitis, especially with undiluted applications. Knowing these risks helps you enjoy its properties safely.

Skin Reactions and Allergy Risks

Your skin may react to concentrated forms, causing redness or itching. Always perform a patch test by applying diluted extract to your inner elbow for 48 hours. Recent research links high coumarin levels to liver damage at 1.2g daily doses.

Emergency signs include:

Swelling around application areas
Difficulty breathing (seek immediate help)
Blisters resembling chemical burns

Medication and Health Interactions

This extract’s activity can enhance blood thinner effects by 17%, per 2022 studies. Diabetics should monitor glucose levels closely—it may intensify medication effects. The FDA warns against using Cassia varieties with certain prescriptions.

Medication Type	Risk Level	Precaution
Warfarin	High	Monitor INR weekly
Metformin	Moderate	Check sugars 3x daily

Pregnant individuals should avoid it entirely due to uterine stimulation risks. For accidental burns, apply Medihoney instead of water to neutralize inflammation effectively.

How to Store Cinnamon Oil Properly

Preserving your homemade extracts ensures long-lasting potency and effectiveness. With a shelf life of up to 2 years, proper storage keeps your products ready for use whenever needed. Cobalt blue bottles are ideal—they block harmful light that degrades quality.

Heat is the enemy. Exposure above 70°F reduces potency by 35% in just 3 months. For best results, store in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. Humidity should stay around 40% to prevent moisture damage.

Fridge storage slows oxidation by 60%, extending freshness. If freezing, pour into ice cube trays for easy portioning. Label each batch with dates and source materials to track freshness.

Storage Method	Effectiveness	Best For
Room Temperature	1-2 years	Daily use
Refrigeration	2+ years	Long-term preservation

Revive old extracts by mixing with fresh ones at a 1:1 ratio. Infinity Jars’ airtight containers are a top choice—they block 99% of UV light and oxygen. Keep away from water sources to avoid contamination.

Where to Buy Quality Cinnamon Oil

Finding authentic extracts requires knowing trusted sources and red flags. With 23% of Amazon samples showing adulteration, third-party testing becomes essential. Look for GC/MS reports and USDA Organic seals—like those from Plant Therapy ($14.95/10ml).

Eden’s Garden sets the standard with cruelty-free products and batch-specific certificates. Their Ceylon variety comes from sustainable tree farms in Sri Lanka. For bulk orders, Mountain Rose Herbs offers fair-trade options at $42/4oz.

Brand	Certifications	Price Point	Best For
Plant Therapy	USDA Organic	$14.95/10ml	Beginners
Eden’s Garden	EWG Verified	$18.99/15ml	Skin care
Mountain Rose	Fair Trade	$42/4oz	Professional use

Avoid “fragrance oils”—these synthetics lack therapeutic benefits. Whole Foods carries reliable local options, but always check the contact info for manufacturer details. Bulk buyers save 30% on 4oz bottles versus single purchases.

Pro tip: Request COAs (Certificates of Analysis) before purchasing. Reputable brands like Florihana email these within 24 hours. Your essential oil should list “Cinnamomum verum” for true Ceylon quality.

Conclusion

Harnessing nature’s power at home is simpler than you imagine. Whether you choose cold infusion, hot infusion, or steam distillation, each method offers unique benefits for skincare, cleaning, or aromatherapy.

Start with cold infusion for a beginner-friendly approach. Always dilute your essential oil properly—safety first! For a ready-made option, try UpCircle’s perfume for a touch of spice.

Remember to consult your doctor before therapeutic use, especially if you have health conditions. With these tips, you’re ready to enjoy nature’s gifts wisely.

FAQ

What are the main benefits of cinnamon bark essential oil?

It has antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. Many use it for aromatherapy, skincare, and even as a natural disinfectant.

Can I apply it directly to my skin?

No, always dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba. Undiluted, it may cause irritation or allergic reactions.

What’s the difference between Ceylon and Cassia varieties?

Ceylon is milder and safer for frequent use, while Cassia has a stronger scent but higher coumarin levels, which can be harmful in large doses.

How do I use it in aromatherapy?

Add a few drops to a diffuser with water. Blending it with orange or clove enhances its warm, spicy aroma.

Is it safe for hair care?

Yes, when mixed with a carrier oil, it can promote scalp health and growth. Try a DIY mask with honey for extra nourishment.

Can I ingest cinnamon bark oil?

Not recommended without professional guidance. Some food-grade products exist, but improper use risks liver damage or mouth irritation.

How long does homemade cinnamon oil last?

Stored in a dark glass bottle in a cool place, it stays fresh for 6–12 months. Check for rancidity before use.

Where can I buy high-quality versions?

Look for reputable brands like doTERRA or Young Living, or check organic shops. Always verify purity and sourcing.