Cinnamon

What does it smell like?

Recognisable bark-like warmth, sometimes fiery, sweet or softly woody.

What is it?

Cinnamon bark oil is a natural spice material; a cinnamon perfume note can also be reconstructed.

The material

Bark of Cinnamomum verum is one documented source. Leaf oils and cassia materials should not be treated as identical.

Where does it come from?

Sri Lanka and Madagascar are documented sources of true cinnamon bark oil.

Types and forms

Bark oil, leaf oil and oleoresin differ in composition and odour; cassia is a related but distinct material.

Natural and manufactured materials

Natural extracts exist, and perfumers can also reconstruct or support this scent with aroma materials. A listed note is not proof of a particular natural ingredient, species or extraction method.

How it is produced or composed

Prepared bark can be steam distilled. Solvent extraction yields other forms such as oleoresins.

Its role in perfume

Adds warmth to amber, woody and gourmand accords, or a spicy accent to floral compositions. Pyramid positions are useful tendencies, not fixed rules or performance guarantees.

Material type

• Natural material and perfume note

Documented regions

• Sri Lanka
• Madagascar

Accords and scent relationships

• Spicy
• Pairings are editorial exploration ideas, not formula rules.