The cinnamon tree (Cinnamon verum) is an excellent example of showing that every part of the tree is used for some purpose. The bark of the cinnamon tree is the most versatile part of the tree as it contains more cinnamaldehyde and eugenol. From this versatile part, we can extract cinnamon bark oil.
Processing the cinnamon bark
There are a few steps to follow to extract cinnamon bark oil. First, workers cut cinnamon trunks from the tree. The cinnamon trunk is about 1 inch in diameter as the cinnamon tree is not a large tree. Then, they separate the bark from the trunk. Workers scrape off the bark from the trunk using a scraper. Instead of throwing away the outer bark, people use it as fuel.
The next step is rubbing the trunk using a metal (brass) bar. The rubbing process makes it easier to peel off the inner bark. Which is the most useful part of the tree. After that, these skilled workers separate the inner bark using a very sharp knife. It is so satisfying to watch each paper-thin bark piece separate from the trunk. These skilled workers do everything by hand, to make sure that no damage happens during the process.
The outer bark still contains some moisture, therefore they dry it first. There are specially designed temperature-controlled rooms to dry the cinnamon outer bark. The drying helps to make the extraction process more efficient.
Extraction of the cinnamon bark oil
Factories use the steam distillation method to extract the cinnamon bark oil. The first step is to crush the dried cinnamon bark into small pieces. And the steam is let into the chamber which contains the dried cinnamon bark. The steam dissolves the oil particles that are present in the cinnamon pieces.
Then the steam comes to the other end. A condenser converts the steam into a water and oil mixture. After that, it is kept unshaken for some time until the oil and water layer separates. Finally, our liquid gold, the cinnamon bark oil can be collected.
Uses of the cinnamon bark oil
Cinnamon bark oil is a great oil to use in massages. The scent of the oil provides a comforting feeling. Therefore it is a go-to product in aromatherapy. It is a good remedy to relieve stress. The scent and warming sensation brings relaxation to your mind. You can use it on its own as well as with other oils to make a mix.
The oil will give you a nice warming sensation when applied. It is very useful to treat muscle pain. Sore muscles need some warmth to heal better. You can use the oil to make a good massaging blend. If you are an athlete, you will need it to treat your sore muscles. And this warming ability is useful to maintain good blood circulation.
Cinnamon bark oil is also useful to maintain your hair and scalp healthy. Cinnamon bark oil has cleansing abilities. It will help you to reduce dandruff by cleansing your scalp well.
You can use cinnamon bark oil in skincare routines also. It is already an ingredient in many cosmetic products that you are using. Since the oil is rich in anti-oxidants it will help to maintain healthy skin and hair. It will protect your youthful look. And will stop the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and other obstacles that will make you look older. Also, you can use it to boost your existing skincare routine. By adding a few drops of oil to the products which you are already using.
We know that cinnamon essential oils have a pleasant smell. Then why not use it as an air freshener? If you can use a few drops of oil into your diffuser you will have a pleasant-smelling house. And since we know that the scent reduces stress, your home will be a home sweet home.
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