Kasija (orange cassia tree)

Orange cassia (Cinnamomum cassia) is a persistent tree native to southern China whose bark produces an essential oil dominated by cinnamaldehyde (75-90%). The 'orange' modifier in this entry likely references a cassia-citrus blend or the orange-tinged bark col or, as cassia itself has no inherent citrus character.

Cassia is often confused with true cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum/zeylanicum), but the two differ significantly: cassia is stronger, sharper, and sweeter, with a higher cinnamaldehyde content and a thicker, rougher bark. It is the cinnamon sold in most North American supermarkets and the dominant cinnamon in Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cuisine.

In perfumery, cassia oil provides a bold, warm spice note. It is less clean than true cinnamon -- rawer, more assertive, with a candy-like sweetness that true cinnamon lacks. The high cinnamaldehyde content makes it a skin sensitizer at strengthens concentrations, requiring careful dosing.

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