Part 2: Harvesting—Scientific Study

Cassia oil from the Cinnamomum cassia species is commonly derived from the bark or leaves of the plant, both of which contain a high proportion of the chemical constituent cinnamaldehyde. To demonstrate the importance of understanding a plant’s peak production timeframe, read the abstract from the study “Variations in essential oil yields and compositions of Cinnamomum cassia leaves at different development stages”.

This study examined the differences in chemical profiles and oil yields between developmental stages of the leaves of the Cinnamomum cassia tree. Between the many developmental stages, the essential oil yield in the leaves was found to be as low as 0.54 percent and as high as 2.12 percent and to contain varying levels of cinnamaldehyde. Researchers determined these differences were caused by variations in the number and maturation level of essential oil-producing cells in the plant’s leaves. The more oil-producing cells, the more oil the plant makes. The more mature and less aged the cells, the better the chemical profile of the essential oil. This study reiterates the necessity of careful attention and expert knowledge that are required for collecting essential oil at a plant’s peak production. (Li Y, Et Al. 2013)

Previous Page | Next Page