Cinnamon for Herb Use

Rou Gui (Cinnamon Bark) – Cinnamomum cassia

Overview:
Rou Gui, also known as Cinnamon Bark, is the dried bark of the Cinnamomum cassia tree. It is a classic warming herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), prized for its ability to tonify kidney yang, warm the interior, dispel cold, and promote the flow of qi and blood. It has a sweet, pungent, and hot nature, and is primarily used to treat conditions caused by internal cold and yang deficiency.

Botanical Description:
Cinnamomum cassia is an evergreen tree native to southern China and parts of Southeast Asia. The bark is harvested from mature branches or trunks, then dried and sometimes rolled into sticks. Its aromatic qualities also make it a common culinary spice.

Traditional Uses in TCM:

1. Warms and Tonifies Kidney Yang:
   Used for symptoms like fatigue, cold limbs, weak lower back and knees, frequent urination, or impotence caused by yang deficiency.

2. Disperses Cold and Alleviates Pain:
   Helpful in relieving abdominal pain, cold sensations in the body, and menstrual cramps associated with cold.

3. Promotes Circulation:
   Stimulates the movement of qi and blood, especially useful in treating blood stasis with cold symptoms.

4. Leads Fire Back to Its Source:
   A unique TCM concept where Rou Gui helps guide floating yang or false heat symptoms (like flushed face or insomnia) back down to their root deficiency.

Pharmacological Properties:
Modern studies show that Rou Gui has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and blood sugar-regulating effects. The essential oils, including cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, contribute to its warming and stimulating properties.

Preparation and Dosage:

• Forms: Used in decoctions, powders, pills, or tinctures.

• Typical Dosage: 1.5–4.5 grams per day, depending on the condition and form used.

Safety Precautions:

• Heat Conditions: Should be avoided in cases of internal heat or yin deficiency with heat signs.

• Pregnancy: Use with caution under supervision during pregnancy.

• Long-Term Use: High doses or prolonged use should be monitored due to its strong warming nature.