(Cinnamomum cassia) Traditionally used to soothe minor digestion issues and to support healthy breathing and joint function. Click here for CO2 Cassia Bark
Aromatherapy Literature Notes Cassia has been used for indigestion, gas, colic, diarrhea, rheumatism, colds and flu (Lawless).
Topical: Cassia contains 75-90% cinnamaldehyde which is the cause of the Cassia's potent dermal sensitizer and irritant. It is not recommened for use on the skin at more than 0.05%. Dilute appropriately if using topically. Dilute with a carrier oil, unscented lotion or unscented cream and apply on area of concern or as desired. Consider using a roll-on applicator for ease of application of prediluted oil. Children: Not suitable for children under 2 years old (potential skin irritant). Do not exceed the 0.05% maximum topical use.
Inhalation: Diffuse (may irritate the nasal membranes if inhaled directly from diffuser or bottle).
Internal: Cassia Leaf is suitable for internal use within safe parameters, if such use is deemed appropriate. Due to the potential skin irritating properties in Cassia, Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt feels the preferred mode of use is internally, ideally taken by capsule diluted with a suitable carrier oil. We feel that internal use is rarely *needed* and should only be used with respect for how concentrated the oils are. HEO does not advocate internal use of essential oils without appropriate knowledge and understanding of how to administer, for what purpose, how much, which essential oils, safety concerns and so on. In our experience, essential oils are generally more effective used topically with proper dilution or inhaled. Kurt Schnaubelt Ph.D. notes that "French aromatherapy literature contains many references to using oils orally." He goes on to note that "generally 1 drop is always enough when ingesting essential oils." A potential toxicity hazard could occur when untrained people use essential oils orally and ingest too much. Keep in mind that while medical doctors or health care practitioners may prescribe essential oils for internal use, they are trained and experienced in the safe application of essential oils. It is not a matter of using "French aromatherapy" or "British" methods, it's a matter of experience and appropriate application." Click here for information about internal usage.
Dermal Caution: Cassia contains 75-90% cinnamaldehyde that is the cause of the Cassia's potent dermal sensitizer and irritant. It is not recommened for use on the skin at more than 0.05%. Avoid topical use on hyersensitive, diseased or damaged skin and on children under 2 years of age.
Medication Oral Caution: Anticoagulant, Diabetes; Childbirth, Major Surgery, Peptic Ulcer, Hemophilia Avoid contact with the eyes and other sensitive areas. Essential oils are both lipophilic and hydrophobic. Lipophilic means they are attracted to fat— like the membranes of your eyes and skin. They are also hydrophobic, meaning they do not like water. Applying a carrier oil will create another fat for the essential oil to be attracted to other than the membranes of the eyes or skin. Tisserand suggests: "With essential oils, fatty oil has been suggested as an appropriate first aid treatment, though the advantage of saline [eyewash] is that the eyes can be continually flushed, and this is less easy with fatty oil.” We are not aware of a case where essential oil in the eyes caused permanent injury or long-term discomfort, but if you feel concerned, please call your health care provider.