One of the oldest spices in the world, warming the skin the way it warms a winter drink.

What is cinnamon?

Cinnamon is the dried inner bark of evergreen trees of the genus Cinnamomum. The bark is stripped from young branches, curls into the familiar “quills” as it dries, and is then ground. “True” cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum or verum) from Sri Lanka has a finer, sweeter aroma than cassia (Cinnamomum cassia), which is stronger and hotter. It was already mentioned by the Egyptians, the Old Testament and Herodotus.

What are the benefits of cinnamon?

Its scent and properties are due to cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, the main components of its essential oil. Applied topically, in a small proportion, cinnamon:

• Has a warming, toning action
• Activates surface circulation
• Gives the skin a rosy, lively look
• Offers polyphenols with antioxidant activity
• Scents with a warm, sweet note

It is all about the dose

Cinnamon is a strong spice and cinnamaldehyde in large amounts irritates. This is why it is used sparingly in cosmetics — enough for scent, colour and the toning feel. It pairs naturally with cocoa, coffee, orange, apple and vanilla.

Where does it come from?

True cinnamon originates in Sri Lanka, which remains the main producer, and is also grown in southern India, the Seychelles and Madagascar. Cassia comes from China, Vietnam and Indonesia.