Pseudocinnamomum EO

This monograph specifies the characteristics, requirements, and test methods for Pseudocinnamomum essential oil (also known as indigenous cinnamon leaf oil) obtained by steam or hydrodistillation of the leaves (and sometimes twigs) of Cinnamomum osmophloeum Kaneh. It covers quality parameters, chemical composition ranges (including chemotypic variation), and safety considerations for use in aromatherapy, perfumery, flavoring, cosmetics, and traditional applications.

Normative References

• ISO 4720 — Essential oils — Nomenclature
• ISO 210 — Essential oils — General requirements for packaging, conditioning and storage
• ISO 211 — Essential oils — General requirements for labelling
• ISO 11024 series — Essential oils — General guidance on chromatographic profiles

Terms and Definitions

For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 4720 and ISO 210 apply.

Pseudocinnamomum Essential Oil: Volatile oil obtained by steam or hydrodistillation from the leaves of Cinnamomum osmophloeum Kaneh. (Lauraceae), commonly known as indigenous cinnamon or pseudocinnamomum.

Botanical Origin and Description

Botanical Name: Cinnamomum osmophloeum Kaneh. (syn. Cinnamomum pseudomelastoma in some contexts)

Plant Family: Lauraceae

Common Names: Pseudocinnamomum, Indigenous cinnamon, Taiwan indigenous cinnamon, Yu-shan cinnamon.

Plant Description: Medium-sized evergreen tree native to the broad-leaved forests of central and northern Taiwan. It features aromatic leaves and is valued as a cinnamon substitute. The species exhibits significant chemotypic variation in its leaf essential oil composition.

Part Used: Fresh or dried leaves (occasionally twigs).

Production Method

Obtained by steam distillation or hydrodistillation of the leaves. Yield varies by chemotype and plant material, typically ranging from 0.5–3.7% or higher in high-yielding linalool chemotypes. Production is primarily associated with Taiwan.

Organoleptic and Physical Properties

• Appearance: Mobile liquid, pale yellow to yellowish or amber.
• Odor: Varies significantly by chemotype — spicy-cinnamon (cinnamaldehyde type), floral-sweet (linalool type), camphoraceous, or mixed.
• Relative Density (20°C): Typically 0.850–0.950 (chemotype-dependent).
• Refractive Index (20°C): Typically 1.480–1.520.
• Optical Rotation (20°C): Varies widely depending on dominant constituents.
• Solubility: Soluble in alcohol and fixed oils; insoluble in water.
• Perfumery Note: Middle note.

Chemical Composition

Pseudocinnamomum (C. osmophloeum) essential oil is notable for strong chemotypic variation.

Major chemotypes include:

• Cinnamaldehyde type — trans-Cinnamaldehyde (often 60–85% or higher).
• Cinnamaldehyde / Cinnamyl acetate type.
• Cinnamyl acetate type.
• Linalool type — Linalool (often 40–96%, frequently S-(+)-linalool).
• Camphor type — Camphor (dominant, e.g., 50–60%).
• Mixed or other types (e.g., eugenol, coumarin).

Typical Major Constituents (area % by GC-FID/MS, chemotype-dependent):

• trans-Cinnamaldehyde: 0–85%
• Linalool: 0–96%
• Cinnamyl acetate: variable
• Camphor: variable
• Eugenol, coumarin, and other monoterpenes/sesquiterpenes.

Full GC-MS analysis is essential for identification and quality control due to chemotypic diversity.

Requirements

Commercial Pseudocinnamomum essential oil should meet the following typical specifications (batch-specific verification required):

• Chromatographic profile consistent with declared chemotype.
• High-purity chemotypes preferred (e.g., high linalool or high cinnamaldehyde).
• Free from adulterants and synthetic additives.
• Compliance with heavy metal, pesticide residue, and microbial limits per relevant regulations.
• Organoleptic properties matching the declared chemotype.

Therapeutic and Functional Properties

Properties vary by chemotype:

• Cinnamaldehyde types: Strong antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hypoglycemic potential.
• Linalool types: Calming, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential glycemic support.
• Overall: Demonstrated anti-inflammatory (inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines), antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. Traditional use as a cinnamon substitute for digestive, circulatory, and wellness support.

Blending and Applications

Blends well with citrus, floral, spice, and wood oils depending on chemotype.

Used in:

• Aromatherapy (relaxation or stimulating blends).
• Natural perfumery and cosmetics.
• Flavoring (as a cinnamon-like note).
• Functional and traditional preparations.

Safety and Toxicology

Safety is highly chemotype-dependent. Cinnamaldehyde-rich oils are potent skin irritants and sensitizers. Linalool-rich types are generally milder.

• Dermal Use: Dilute appropriately (0.5–2% or lower for cinnamaldehyde types); always perform patch testing.
• Contraindications: Avoid undiluted use. Use with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Cinnamaldehyde types may cause skin sensitization. Consult a qualified practitioner for therapeutic use.
• Storage: Cool, dark place in airtight amber glass containers (per ISO 210). Shelf life: 2–3 years under proper conditions.

Labelling and Packaging

Labelling shall comply with ISO 211, including full botanical name (Cinnamomum osmophloeum Kaneh.), chemotype (if applicable), origin (e.g., Taiwan), production method, batch number, and date. Use approved materials per ISO 210.13. Test Methods

• Organoleptic evaluation.
• GC-MS / GC-FID for chromatographic profile and chemotype confirmation (ISO 11024).
• Physical constants (density, refractive index, optical rotation).
• Sensory and stability testing as required.

Anti-inflammation activities of essential oil and its constituents from indigenous cinnamon (Cinnamomum osmophloeum) twigs

Activity of *Cinnamomum* osmophloeum leaf essential oil against *Anopheles gambiae*

Cinnamomum osmophloeum ct. linalool ( tǔ ròu guì) is one chemotype of the indigenous cinnamons in Taiwan. This study examined the anxiolytic potency of leaf essential oil (LEO) from C. osmophloeum ct. linalool and its main constituent on 4-week ICR mice using an open field test (OFT), a light-dark test (LDT) and an elevated plus maze test (EPT). After oral administration of corn oil, LEO (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg), S-(+)-linalool (500 mg/kg), R-(-)-linalool (500 mg/kg), and trazodone hydrochloride (75 mg/kg) for 14 days, the anxiolytic effects on mice behavior were evaluated. The results showed that LEO from C. osmophloeum ct. linalool leaves and S-(+)-linalool can significantly increase the time mice remained in the center area of the OFT, the illuminated area of the LDT and the open arms of the EPT without any side effects affecting motor activity, indicating excellent anxiolytic responses. Furthermore, results from the measurements of monoamines in mice brain revealed decreases in serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are consistent with their anxiolytic effects in animal models. The findings obtained suggest that LEO from C. osmophloeum ct. linalool and its major compound, S-(+)-linalool, possess anxiolytic properties without any side effects and thus support their potential use in treatment of anxiety disorders.Source