Aqua Cinnamomi (U. S. P.)—Cinnamon Water.
Related entry: Oleum Cinnamomi (U. S. P.)—Oil of Cinnamon
Preparation.—"Oil of cinnamon, two cubic centimeters (2 Cc.) [32♏︎︎]; precipitated calcium phosphate, four grammes (4 Gm.) [62 grs.]; distilled water a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl℥, 391♏︎︎]. Triturate the oil of cinnamon with the precipitated calcium phosphate, add the distilled water gradually, under continued trituration, and filter"—(U. S. P.).
When cinnamon water is prepared with true oil of cinnamon, it soon becomes turbid from oxidation of the oil, and the formation of cinnamic acid (C6H5.CH:CH.COOH), which crystallizes from the water. Oil of Chinese cinnamon yields a water remaining clear for a much longer time.
Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Cinnamon water is useful in passive hemorrhage from the lungs, stomach, kidneys, or uterus, in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery, and in flatulency. It is frequently employed to cover the unpleasant taste of other remedies, especially opiates, and will often allay vomiting. Its dose is from 2 fluid drachms to 2 fluid ounces. It should not be used when fever or inflammation is present.
