Camphor, scientifically known as Cinnamomum camphora is an organic compound that is solid, combustible and translucent and has a sharp smell and sour taste. This wonder ingredient is used in the preparation of ointments, creams and lotions owing to its indispensable medicinal properties.
Camphor is obtained from the bark of Cinnamonun camphora tree, only the aged camphor tree above 50 years old secreting a waxy substance is used to make camphor oil. The stem of the camphora tree is used to extract the camphor oil by the steam distillation process. The essential oil gets easily diffused in the skin when applied topically alleviates pain, irritation and rashes. The tree is a native of Hiroshima, Japan and also widely grown in many Asian countries, particularly Indonesia.
Camphor has a magnitude of uses particularly as a vital element in making vapour rubs, balms and ointments as it aids in soothing pain and itchiness. The potent antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties promote respiratory health, heal skin disorders and ease the pain. Besides these, it is also used to keep the bugs like cockroaches and insects away from wardrobe and kitchen units.
How Does It Work?
Camphor oil works by stimulating nerve endings, thereby easing symptoms such as pain and itchiness when applied topically to the skin. It also exhibits potent antifungal property and treats infections in the toenails caused by fungi. While in the nose camphor oil creates a cold sensation, which makes breathing easier and comfortable by clearing congestion.
Read Through The Article To Know About The Wellness Benefits Of Camphor Oil:
Eases Pain And Inflammation
Camphor oil possesses strong germicide, insecticide and disinfectant properties. Applying camphor oil topically aids to alleviate pain and swelling, as it works as a counter-irritant in the skin. It makes the sensory nerve ending of the skin to feel numb, thereby easing pain, and inflammation and averts most of the skin ailments. Potent antifungal and antibacterial properties are beneficial in curing most of the common skin infections.
Improves Digestion Process
Camphor oil works as an effective stimulant that promotes the secretions of digestive enzymes and assists in the smooth functioning of the digestive system. It speeds up the metabolism, optimizes the absorption of nutrients, enhances the bowel movement and excretes the waste materials out of the system. The active compounds in camphor oil are also valuable in clearing gas build-up in the body and treat flatulence. Also Read: Gassy Gut Troubling You? Try These Natural Cures
Treats Nervous Disorders
The powerful analgesic and anaesthetic properties of camphor oil are valuable in treating nervous disorders. It is proven that direct application of camphor oil can result in numbness. Several studies have disclosed that camphor oil is beneficial in reducing the symptoms of nervous disorders like anxiety, convulsions, nervousness and epileptic attack.
Augments Lung Health
Camphor oil is a time-tested remedy for treating respiratory woes like nasal congestion, clearing phlegm, cough and cold. Simply inhaling the fragrance of camphor can clear the mucus and phlegm in the nasal tract, bronchi and lungs. Camphor oil is a key element in vaporizing rubs owing to its strong decongestant properties. Furthermore, camphor oil can also treat illness including measles, flu and whooping cough. Also Read: Respiratory Health: 5 Incredible Herbs To Boost Your Lung Power
Prevents Malaria
Camphor oil is the best natural remedy to prevent malaria, it functions in two ways - averting humans from contracting it when applied topically and when camphor is burned around the vicinity it kills mosquitoes causing malaria. Applying minimal quantities of camphor oil on the body can avert mosquitoes from biting you. Apart from these, notable disinfecting properties in camphor oil can kill disease-causing bacteria, fungi and viruses in the blood.
Additional Benefits
Treats Eczema
Camphor oil is beneficial in treating eczema in kids and adults and lessens symptoms like irritation and itchiness associated with eczema. Aside from this, applying camphor oil to the affected regions aids in alleviating pain and inflammation. Camphor oil is a key ingredient in several lotions and ointments, which are used in treating eczema.
Promotes Sleep
The distinct cologne of camphor oil has a calming effect on the mind and induces a night of sound sleep. The simplest way is to rub a few drops of camphor oil on the pillow to get a good night sleep.
Uses For Skin
Camphor oil has potent antifungal and antimicrobial qualities and is used as a topical remedy for many skin problems. This oil combats fungal skin infections and eczema and offers respite from skin irritation and rashes. Make sure to dilute it before applying it to the affected region.
Aromatherapy
Inhaling the soothing aroma of camphor oil is known to have a stimulating and refreshing effect on the mind. It is also used in aromatherapy to uplift mental health and ease stress.
Nail Health
Diluted camphor oil is used to address nail fungus issues. Applying a diluted solution to affected nails may help inhibit the growth of fungi.
Muscle Relaxant
Camphor oil is a powerful antispasmodic that aids in treating a host of ailments like stomach cramps and muscle and joint pain. It can be used regularly as an effective relaxant after a hectic day.
Side Effects
Camphor oil is generally safe when used in minimal amounts to heal skin infections. Camphor oil products should never be used in open wounds or cuts because, when it is absorbed in the blood can cause respiratory problems and also avoid direct contact with the eyes. It is not safe to consume, as it may cause liver damage. Pregnant women, lactating mothers and children under two years should not use camphor products.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Is It Used in Health Care?
Camphor oil is used in health care as a traditional remedy. It is commonly used for its decongestant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial actions.
It is widely used as a key ingredient in chest rubs, balms and ointments, inhalants, vapor oils and topical pain-relieving products.
Camphor oil is mainly used for external applications and inhalation purposes, not for oral consumption.
Can Camphor Oil Help Improve Respiratory Health?
Yes, camphor oil is beneficial in temporarily easing respiratory comfort, especially during conditions such as common cold, nasal congestion, mild cough, and sinus blockage.
However, camphor oil does not cure respiratory diseases like asthma, pneumonia, or COPD. It should only be used as a supportive or symptomatic relief, not as a replacement for prescribed medication.
How Should Camphor Oil Be Applied Safely?
Camphor oil must be used with caution. Safe methods include:
Topical application: Dilute with a carrier oil such as coconut before applying to the chest, throat, or back.
Steam inhalation: Add a few drops to hot water and inhale the vapors carefully.
Aromatherapy: Use in a diffuser in well-ventilated areas.
Important safety rules:
Never ingest camphor oil.
Do not apply directly to broken skin.
Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Wash your hands after application
Is Camphor Oil Safe for Children and Elderly People?
Camphor oil should be used very cautiously in children and elderly individuals.
Children under 2 years it is not safe.
Children 2–10 years old use only mild, commercially prepared products and avoid direct application.
Elderly people can safely use it in small, diluted amounts, but skin sensitivity and respiratory conditions should be considered.
Always consult a healthcare professional before use in vulnerable age groups.
How Often Should Camphor Oil Be Used for Breathing Issues?
Camphor oil should be used sparingly.
1–2 times daily for topical application.
Steam inhalation once daily, if needed
Short-term use only for 2–3 days.
If breathing issues persist or worsen, camphor oil should be discontinued, and prompt medical attention should be given.
References:
- Hamidpour R, Hamidpour S, Hamidpour M, Shahlari M. Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora), a traditional remedy with a history of treating several diseases. International Journal of Case Reports and Images 2013;4(2):86–89.
- Phytochemistry and Applications of Cinnamomum camphora Essential Oils, Sang-Hwan Lee, Dae-Shin Kim, Seong-Hee Park, and Hyun Park
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