Cinnamomum cassia Presl

Abstract

There are three entries for the medicinal herb Cinnamomum cassia Presl (Lauraceae) in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia: Rougui, Cortex Cinnamomi, is the dry stem bark of C. cassia peeled in the fall. It is used in traditional Chinese medicine as an analgesic, stomachic, and antiinflammatory agent. Rouguiyou, Oleum Cinnamomi, is the essential oil of C. cassia obtained by steam distillation of the dry stems and leaves. It is used as an analgesic and stomachic. The cinnamaldehyde content in this essential oil should not be less than 85% (ml/ml). Guizhi, Ramulus Cinnamomi, is the dry young branches of C. cassia collected in spring and summer and is used as an analgesic and antipyretic against influenza and rheumatic pain.