Origin

Jamaica

Folk medicinal uses

The bark of Canella winterana is commonly sold in the markets of Jamaica and, soaked in rum. It provides a favourite embrocation for pains. A little of the liquid may be drunk in cases of stomach pains. It has been known in Europe as a spice since the seventeenth century and was used as aromatic bitter and stimulant. It is an ingredient of Riera Picra. The drug Canella was at one time included in the pharmacopoeias. It has been used in the treatment of dyspepsia. Dysentery. rheumatism. gout and syphilis and in the West Indies had some reputation as a cephalic( in the form of snuff) and antiscorbutic.

Asprey, G.F; Phylis Thornton/ Medicinal plants of Jamaica. Parts III & IV. – p. 52.