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. The bark is widely used to flavor curries, in baked foods, candies and soft drinks.

This essential oil is extracted from the leaves, bark, twigs and stalks by steam distillation.

The therapeutic properties are carminative, anti-diarrhea, anti-microbial and anti-emetic.

The main chemical components are cinnamic aldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, benzaldehyde, linalool and chavicol.

Cassia essential oil should not be used in massage therapy.

Used in a burner, humidifier or vaporizer 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.

In vapor therapy this oil will assist with fevers, colds, flu, low vitality, chills and will also support the digestive system.

Although this essential 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.