Cinnamon was one of the most common ingredients in various religious/spiritual incenses in ancient Egypt.
- botanical information
- origin
- history
- part used
- nutritional information
- selection
- storage
- preparation
- astrological correspondences
- magick correspondences and uses
- ritual uses
- ancient myths and beliefs
- Goddesses and deities
- oil
- health care
- modern herbal healing
- external skin care
- cautions and contraindications
botanical information:
Botanical name: Cinnamomum verum or Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Common name: cinnamon, Ceylon cinnamon, Indian cinnamon, sweet wood, true cinnamon
Chinese name: kwai
Greek name: kasia, kinamomon
Hebrew name: kinnamown, kinnemon besem
Related plants:
- Cinnamomun aromaticum: Chinese cinnamon or cassia or bastard cinnamon (low grade)
- Cinnamomun burmannii: Indonesian cinnamon (low grade)
- Cinnamomun loureiroi: Saigon cinnamon or Vietnamese cinnamon (medium grade)
The word cinnamon comes from the Arabic word amomon, which means fragrant spice plant.
Use the botanical name when ordering seeds (bulbs, etc.) or when looking up information in the library. Common names vary by nation, culture, and region, and sometimes the same common name is applied to different plants.
Family: Lauraceae
Kind: Evergreen Tree.
Height: 10-15 meters
Leaf: 7-18 cm long, ovate-oblong shape, smells like cloves
Flower: white color, disagreeable odor, arranged in panicles
Fruit: 1 cm purple berry with a single seed
origin:
Origin: Sri Lanka
history:
History: Cinnamon first appeared in Chinese writing around 2800 B.C.E. Cinnamon is also mentioned in ancient Sanskrit documents from southern India.
Cinnamon and cassia were imported into Egypt from China and southeast Asia by 2,000 B.C.E. Pleasant smelling scents were associated with goodness and purity. The Egyptians used cinnamon oil as one of the ingredients in embalming mummies. Ramses III is recorded offering 246 bundles and 86 measures of cinnamon to the Neteru and on another occassion offered 3,036 logs of cinnamon.
The first Greek reference to kasia (cinnamon) was in a 7th century C.E. poem written by Sappho in which she imagines a wedding at which the smoke of frankincense, myrrh, and cinnamon or cassia rose to Heaven.
Cinnamon was once used as currency. Around 1000 B.C.E. Arab traders who supplied the Mediterranean with cassia and cinnamon made up wild stories of their origin (supposedly in Africa) to obscure the real sources and hold onto their spice monopoly. In the first century C.E. the Roman general Pliny the Elder wrote in 77 C.E. that the Arabian tales were crafted to inflate prices, “…there is a tale of cinnamon growing around marshes under the protection of a terrible kind of bats…invented by the natives to raise the price”. Pliny stated that 327 grams of cinnamon (a Roman pound) was 300 denars, the same price as more than five kilograms of silver, or about fifteen (15) times the value of silver by weight. Diocletian’s Edict on Maximum Prices from 301 C.E. gave a price of 125 denars for a pound of cassia.
Alexandria was the primary Mediterranean shipping source of cinnamon for the Roman Empire. Herodotus knew that cinnamon came up the Red Sea to Egypt. The claim was that giant Cinnamon birds (phoenix) or fierce bats collected the cinnamon sticks from an unknown location in Africa (possibly Ethiopia) to build their nests. He also said that the cinnamon trees were guarded by winged serpents. He mentioned both Arabia and the home of Dionysos (India) as possible sources of cinnamon. This story persisted as late as 1310 in Byzantium.
Cinnamon was used to preserve meat. The phenols inhibited bacteria that caused spoilage and the strong sweet smell covered up the stench of spoilage.
The Portuguese took control of Ceylon in 1505. In 1627 the Dutch seixed control of Ceylon during the Dutch-Portuguese War.
part used:
Part Used: Inner soft brown bark peeled from young shoots during the rainy season.
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Part Used: Dried bark in sticks, chips, or ground. Information courtesy of Mountain Rose Herbs |
nutritional information:
Cinnamon bark is an herb and herbal tea that helps nourish the kidneys.
Cinnamon is a spice that increases sexual energy and enhances fertility.
The flavor is from the aromatic oil.
selection:
Obtain stick cinnamon, never powdered cinnamon. Because the genus name is Cinnamomum, all plants in the genus are technically forms of cinnamon and there are two lesser quality plants that are used for powdered cinnamon because they cost a lot less. The only way to know you are getting real cinnamon is to obtain it in stick form.
storage:
All spices, including cinnamon, lose their strength and taste with time and exposure to air and/or heat. Store in a cool dry place, away from a stove or oven.
preparation:
Sprinkle cinnamon on French toast, oatmeal, bread, bananas, or hot chocolate.
astrological correspondences:
Astrological planet: Sun 
magickal correspondences and uses:
Incense: Cinnamon incense corresponds with wednesday and is a good incense to burn on wednesdays.
Incense: Cinnamon incense or herb is appropriate for burning in love spells, such as the Aphrodite New Moon love spell, Hecate black candle love spell, or Isis Full Moon love spell.
Gender: masculine (traditional western European magickal gender)
Western element: fire
Magickal uses: healing, love, lust, power, protection, psychic powers, spirituality, strength, and success
Solar spells: Cinnamon (as herb or essential oil) may be used in as an ingredient or substitute for magick spells and formulas related to solar matters (healing, illumination, magickal power, physical energy, protection, success, and putting an end to legal matters). Be careful about substitutions for preparations that will be ingested or come in contact with the skin. These substitutions do not apply to medical uses. See the article on the Sun for a list of herbal substitutes for cinnamon.
Using essential oils: Essential oils are just too concentrated and too expensve to use without dilution. If you purchase pure essential oil from a source such as Mountain Rose, you will want to place just a drop or two into a neutral carrier vegetable oil or jojoba. This conservation is typical of the use of essential oils in spells and other magick. It is wise to test a bit of any essential oil on your inner wrist before use. If any irritation occurs, do not use the essential oil. Keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets and away from heat and light. See the article on essential oils for detailed information on how to mix and use essential oils.
Scott Cunningham recommends a pumpkin pie spiced with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg to draw money.
Magick food for love spells: Cinnamon is an appropriate ingredient for use in food for love spells, such as the Aphrodite New Moon love spell, Hecate black candle love spell, or Isis Full Moon love spell. See the article on foods for more information on using food magick in spells.
Magickal substitutions: Rosemary usually may be safely substituted for any herb in magick spells and rituals. Roses may safely be substituted for any flower.
Because cinnamon was sacred to Aphrodite and Venus it was considered to be an aphrodisiac.
Magical Uses  Use in money drawing spells. Also aids in healing, esp. digestive problems. Ruling Element: Fire. spirituality and healing, cleansing. Spiritual quests, augmenting power, love, passion, success, psychic work, healing, cleansing. Used in dream pillows to increase psychic awareness and prosperity. Will stimulate and excite the passions of the male. Mix with Myrrh for a good general propose incense. Tie 3 Cinnamon sticks together with a green ribbon and hang on front door of business to bring customers. Spirituality, Success, Healing, Power, Psychic Powers, Lust Protection, Lovefont>
information courtesy of 
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ritual uses:
Ritual uses: Cinnamon oil was one of the ingredients in the Hebrew Holy anointing oil, or Shemen Ha’Mishchah.
According to Exodus 30:22-25, the Holy anointing oil was made from:
- Pure Myrrh, mar deror, 500 shekels, about 6 kg
- Sweet Cinnamon, kinnemon besem, 250 shekels, about 3 kg
- Cannabis, keneh bosem, 250 shekels, about 3 kg (most authorities translate this ingredient as Sweet Calamus)
- Cassia, kiddah, 500 shekels, about 6 kg
- Olive oil, shemen sayith, one hin, authorities disagree with quantity: about 5 quarts, about 4 L, or about 7 L
The Holy anointing oil was used to ancient vessels of the Tabernacle, to anoint the High Priest, to anoint the kings of Israel, and to anoint the Prophets. The term Messiah means “the anointed one.”
In Exodus, the fragrance of cinnamon is a metaphor for the worthiness of a whole-hearted obedient life to the Hebrew God. In Proverbs 7:17 the fragrance of cinnamon is a metaphor for the overpowering allure of sin.
Roman Emperor Nero burned a year’s worth of Rome’s supply of cinnamon at the funeral for his wife Poppaea Sabina in 65 C.E. Because of the high cost, cinnamon was rarely burned at Roman funerals.
Scott Cunningham recommends burning cinnamon incense to raise spiritual vibrations, aid healing, draw money, stimulate psychic powers, and create protective vibrations.
ancient myths and beliefs:
Gypsies use cinnamon for lust and for love spells.
In 1394 an Arabian writer recommended boiled onion, green peas, cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger to increase sexual desire.
The Japanese cooked rice with sugar and cinnamon to make a man more skillful sexually.
deities associated with cinnamon:
- Aphrodite (Greek Goddess)
- Apollo (ancient Greek deity)
- Bast (ancient Egyptian Goddess)
- Venus (Roman Goddess)
According to Scott Cunningham (in his book Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs) Roman temples were decorated with wreaths woven of cinnamon leaves. He does not indicate which deities.
Ancient inscriptions record that cinnamon and cassia were presented as offering gifts at the Temple of Apollo at Miletus.
The Columbaria of Livia on the Appian Way, a Temple of Augustus built by Livia (Augustus’ widow), Tiberius, and finished by Caligula, featured a giant cinnamon tree root on a golden tray. This relic was destroyed by a fire during the reign of Titus, but the temple was restored by Domitian.
essential oil:
Essential Oil: cinnamon essential oil can be used for both aromatherapy and magick.
Method of Extraction: the bark is roughly pounded, macerated in sea water, then quickly distilled
Color: golden-yellow
The flavor of cinnamon is from the aromatic oil. True cinnamon can be identified by its high amount of essential oil, between 0.5 and 1 percent.
Caution: Pure cinnamon oil will burn and inflame skin and eyes.
Using essential oils: Essential oils are just too concentrated and too expensve to use without dilution. If you purchase pure essential oil from a source such as Mountain Rose, you will want to place just a drop or two into a neutral carrier vegetable oil or jojoba. This conservation is typical of the use of essential oils in spells and other magick. It is wise to test a bit of any essential oil on your inner wrist before use. If any irritation occurs, do not use the essential oil. Keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets and away from heat and light. See the article on essential oils for detailed information on how to mix and use essential oils.
health care uses:
Health Notice: Attempting to be an amateur doctor is potentially dangerous to your health. This web page is not professional medical advice. Nothing on this website should be considered as a substitute or replacement for professional medical advice. Persons should seek the advice of qualified health providers. Self-medication should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care. Please confirm all self-medication with your doctor or health care professional. See the article on healing for recommended healers.
Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar, inhibits cancer cells, and is anti-inflammatory, according to research by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
traditional medicine:
Traditional Medicine: While many traditional practices have been scientifically verified, some are now known to be dangerous. Seek the advice of qualified health care providers.
In 1394 an Arabian writer recommended boiled onion, green peas, cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger to increase sexual desire.
herbal healing:
Cinnamon helps lower plasma glucose levels in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, according to research at the Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center in Maryland. One-half to three teaspoons of cinnamon a day improves blood glucose, triglycerides, and fats after just 40 days.
Cinnamon is a digestive aid that helps relieve gas and bloating.
Cinnamon is an antibacterial agent, especially effective against bacteria such as E. coli.
Adding cinnamon to dairy foods sometimes makes them more digestible.
external care:
External skin care: Cinnamon in Rhonda Allison Grape Seed Parfait Mask: “The Grape Seed Parfait Mask has overall hydrating effects provide skin with valuable nutrients that assist in replacing vitamins and antioxidants that strengthen and firm the skin. Provides skin with valuable nutrients that assist in replacing vitamins and antioxidants that streghten and firm for an overall hydrating effect. With shea butter, grape seed extract, squalane. Smells heavenly with blend of orange, clove, and cinnamon. Smooth onto face and neck for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Scoop out a small amount and smooth onto face and neck evenly. Place moistened chamomile tea bags or sliced cool cucumbers on the eyes and lie down to soothing relaxing music for 15 minutes or soak in your favorite herbal bath. Rinse away with warm water and blot skin dry.” Rhonda Allison Grape Seed Parfait Mask
External skin care: Cinnamon essential oils in Rhonda Allison Grape Seed Hydrating Serum: “All natural, nutrient-enriched hydrating antioxidant oil goes on smooth and silky. Provides the skin with powerful blend of essential vitamins and protective antioxidants. Massage a few drops into face and neck every day.” Rhonda Allison Grape Seed Hydrating Serum
cautions and contraindications:
Cautions and contraindications: Do not use or ingest while pregnant. Not for long term internal use. Do not use or ingest more than normal food quantities.
Non-toxic to animals: The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center has determined that cinnamon “has not been reported as having systemic effects on animals or as having intense effects on the gastrointestinal tract.” —ASPCA
Wild gathering: Avoid wild gathering. Some plants are endangered species. Please grow your own herbs in your own goddess garden (or window boxes).
from Köhler’s Medizinal-Pflanzen by Franz Eugen Köhler, 1897
Deutsch: Ceylon-Zimtbaum. A blühender Zweig; 1 Blüthe; 2 dieselbe in Längsschnitt; 3 unfruchtbares Staubgefäss von verschiedenen Seiten; 4, 5 fruchtbares Staubgefäss; 6 Pollen; 7 Stempel; 8, 9 ,10 Frucht und Same.
Español: Una rama de canelo (Cinnamomum verum) en floración. (1) flor; (2) flor en sección longitudinal; (3) estambres estériles; (4, 5) estambre fértil; (6) polen; (7) carpelo; (8, 9, 10) fruto y semilla.
Latina: Cinnamomum verum.
See also: herbs
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