Cinnamon Leaf Oil
Also known as: Cinnamomum verum leaf oil, Cinnamomum cassia leaf oil, Cinnamon leaf oil, Cinnamon essential oil, Cinnamon oil
Overview
Cinnamon leaf oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of cinnamon trees, primarily *Cinnamomum verum* (Ceylon cinnamon) or *Cinnamomum cassia* (Cassia cinnamon). It is distinct from cinnamon bark oil, which is derived from the bark. The oil is used as a flavoring agent, fragrance, and in traditional medicine for its potential metabolic and antimicrobial properties. Key characteristics include a high concentration of cinnamaldehyde and eugenol. Cassia cinnamon leaf oil may contain coumarin, which is a concern at high doses. While cinnamon in general has been studied for various health benefits, research specifically on cinnamon leaf oil in humans is limited. Most high-quality studies focus on cinnamon powder or bark extracts, with animal studies and in vitro research being more common for leaf oil. Therefore, caution should be exercised when extrapolating the benefits of cinnamon powder or bark to cinnamon leaf oil.
Benefits
Limited direct human studies exist on cinnamon leaf oil. Research on cinnamon (bark and powder) suggests potential benefits for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. A meta-analysis showed a mean reduction in HbA1c by -0.67% (p = 0.011), HOMA-IR by -1.32 (p < 0.001), and fasting blood sugar by -1.32 mmol/L (p < 0.001). These effects are primarily attributed to cinnamon powder or bark extracts, not specifically to leaf oil. Animal models suggest potential effects on growth, fatty acid composition, and meat quality, but these findings are not directly applicable to human health. Overall, more research is needed to determine the specific benefits of cinnamon leaf oil in humans.
How it works
Cinnamaldehyde and other polyphenols present in cinnamon leaf oil are believed to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and modulate glucose metabolism. These compounds may act on pancreatic beta cells, the liver, and adipose tissue to enhance glucose uptake and reduce insulin resistance. The proposed molecular targets include insulin receptor signaling, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). While cinnamaldehyde is generally well absorbed orally, limited data exists on the specific absorption and bioavailability of cinnamon leaf oil components.
Side effects
Cinnamon, including cinnamon leaf oil, is generally considered safe at typical dietary and supplemental doses. Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have not reported significant adverse effects. Common side effects are rare, but some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. Rare side effects include hepatotoxicity, particularly with high doses of coumarin-containing Cassia cinnamon. Cinnamon may interact with hypoglycemic agents, potentially leading to additive effects; therefore, blood glucose levels should be monitored when used with diabetes medications. Contraindications include allergy to cinnamon. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid high doses, and children should use cinnamon leaf oil only under medical supervision.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose and optimal dosage ranges for cinnamon leaf oil in humans have not been established. For cinnamon powder, effective doses typically range from 1 to 6 grams per day, with 1 to 3 grams per day being commonly used. Due to the potential for coumarin toxicity, intake of Cassia cinnamon should be limited to avoid exceeding 0.1 mg/kg body weight per day. Cinnamon powder is often taken with meals, but no specific timing recommendations exist for leaf oil. As leaf oil is more concentrated, it should be used with caution and diluted appropriately for topical or oral use. Limited data are available regarding the bioavailability of cinnamon leaf oil components.
FAQs
How should I use cinnamon leaf oil safely?
Cinnamon leaf oil is highly concentrated. Dilute it properly before topical or oral use. Avoid high doses, especially if using Cassia cinnamon, due to the risk of coumarin toxicity. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Can cinnamon leaf oil help with diabetes?
Cinnamon (primarily powder or bark) has shown modest benefits for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. However, there is limited research specifically on cinnamon leaf oil. Monitor blood glucose levels if using with diabetes medications.
Are there any side effects I should be aware of?
Cinnamon leaf oil is generally safe at typical doses. Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. High doses of Cassia cinnamon may cause liver toxicity due to coumarin content.
Is cinnamon leaf oil the same as cinnamon bark oil?
No, cinnamon leaf oil and cinnamon bark oil are derived from different parts of the cinnamon tree and have different chemical compositions. Their effects and safety profiles may also differ, so they are not interchangeable.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22579946/ – This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigated the effect of cinnamon on glucose control and lipid parameters in type 2 diabetes patients. The study found that cinnamon significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides, suggesting a potential role for cinnamon in managing diabetes and related metabolic risk factors. However, the study focused on cinnamon supplementation in general, not specifically cinnamon leaf oil.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.790901/full – This umbrella review examined the safety of cinnamon consumption based on meta-analyses and systematic reviews. The review concluded that cinnamon intake at typical doses is generally safe and does not cause significant adverse effects. However, the review noted that some studies had limitations and that more research is needed to confirm the safety of high doses of cinnamon, particularly Cassia cinnamon, due to its coumarin content.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/13/2983 – This dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessed the effects of cinnamon on glucolipid metabolic indexes in type 2 diabetes patients. The study found that cinnamon supplementation improved glucolipid metabolism in a dose-dependent manner. The analysis focused on cinnamon powder, not specifically cinnamon leaf oil, and further research is needed to determine the optimal dose and form of cinnamon for managing diabetes.
- https://ijhmr.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1.pdf – This study investigated the effects of cinnamon essential oil on growth performance, fatty acid composition, and meat quality in broiler chickens. The results showed that cinnamon essential oil supplementation improved growth performance, altered fatty acid composition, and enhanced meat quality in broilers. While this study provides insights into the potential benefits of cinnamon essential oil in animal models, its findings may not be directly applicable to human health.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37876365/ – This study examined the effects of cinnamon supplementation on glycemic control in individuals with prediabetes. The results indicated that cinnamon supplementation may improve glycemic control and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in individuals with prediabetes. However, the study focused on cinnamon supplementation in general, not specifically cinnamon leaf oil.
Supplements Containing Cinnamon Leaf Oil
Omega Cuts Elite
PMD
Omega Cuts Elite
PMD
On Guard +
doTERRA
Omega Cuts Elite
PMD
Part 2
Brenda Watson's Vital Planet
Vital Detox - Part 2
Brenda Watson's Vital Planet
On Guard +
doTERRA
LEAN|CORE Omega MCT+CLA
Core Active
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