Öz
Cinnamon is one of the oldest and extensively consumed seasoning obtained from the barks of some Cinnamomum (Lauraceae) species. Although over the 250 Cinnamomum species are known, Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon), C. cassia (Chinese), C. burmanni (Indonesian) and C. loureiroi (Vietnamese) are widely cultivated and traded. Differentiation of powdered barks is only possible with anatomical, morphological, chromatographic and spectroscopic analysis. Cinnamon and its essential oil are widely used in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries due to its unique aroma. Some types of cinnamon, which has been recommended for diabetics, contain high amounts of anticoagulant and hepatotoxic "coumarin" compound. In this study, 23 cinnamon samples were examined anatomically and morphologically. Main compounds of obtained essential oils were analysed by Gas Chromatography and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry. Coumarin contents were determined by High-performance Liquid Chromatography. Except for one sample, all defined as “cassia”. Coumarin was found in concentrations ranging from 0.042 to 128 mg/gr.