Camphor, White Essential Oil
Botanical Name: Cinnamomum camphora
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distillation
Parts Used: Wood, root stumps and branches
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Sharp, pungent, camphoraceous odor
Largest Producing Countries: China, India, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Japan, Taiwan, and Madagascar
Traditional Use: It is rarely used in its complete form in perfumes, but has served as a starting material for the isolation and production of a great number of perfumery chemicals. The oil itself is used as a solvent in the paint and lacquer industry.
Properties: Analgesic, anthelminthic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericidal, carminative, counter-irritant, diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge, hypertensive, laxative, rubefacient, sedative, stimulant (of circulation, digestion, heart and respiration), sudorific, vaso-constrictor (systemic), vermifuge, and vulnerary.
Benefits: Use with care. Acne, arthritis, bronchitis, bruises, burns, chills, cholera, colds, colic, constipation, coughs, debility, depression, diarrhea, fever, flatulence, flu, gout, heart failure, hypotension, hysteria, infectious diseases, inflammation, insect repellant (flies, moths, etc.), insomnia, muscular aches and pains, nervous tension, oily skin conditions, pimples, pneumonia, retention of urine, rheumatism, shock, sprains, toothache, tuberculosis, ulcers, vomiting, and wounds.
Blends Well With: Citrus oils, eucalyptus, lavandin, lavender, rosemary, and spice oils.
Of Interest: It has a long-standing tradition as an herbal preventative of infectious disease; a lump of camphor was worn around the neck as a protection. In addition it was used for nervous and respiratory diseases in general, as well as for heart failure.
Safety Data: Relatively non-toxic, non-sensitizing, and non-irritant. Not compatible with homeopathic treatment. Not to be used while pregnant or on babies.