Camphor Essential Oil

Cinnamonum Camphora or Dryobalanops Camphora

Camphor Oil blends well with Basil, Cajuput, Chamomile, Melissa and Lavender Oil, for uses in aromatherapy.

Known Uses

Camphor Oil boosts the circulatory system, metabolism, digestion, secretions and excretions. It can relieve flatulence, alleviate spasms and cramps, and cure spasmodic cholera. It is a very effective anesthetic and reduces the severity of convulsions, epileptic seizures, nervousness and anxiety. It has been used in cases of heart failure in combination with other medicines.

Camphor Essential Oil is an excellent disinfectant, insecticide and germicide. It can be added to drinking water to remove germs and bacteria or to bath water to disinfect the body and kill lice and other parasites that may be present. An open container of Camphor Oil, or burning a piece of cloth soaked in Camphor Oil repels insects and kills germs. A few drops mixed with a large quantity of grains can keep the grains safe from insect infestation. It can cure bacterial and fungal infections of the skin and is used in many medical ointments and lotions to cure skin diseases.

Camphor Essential Oil can also be used in the treatment of epilepsy, hysteria, viral diseases such as whooping cough, measles, and flu as well as in the treatment of food poisoning, infections of the reproductive organs, and insect bites. Camphor Oil, when ingested, is said to boost the libido.

Camphor Oil is helpful in reducing swelling and inflammation, both internal and external. When used in a balm or cold rub, it immediately relieves congestion of the bronchi, larynx, pharynx, nasal tracts and lungs. Plus, it increases blood circulation to effectively treat rheumatic diseases, arthritis, and gout. It has some narcotic effects, temporarily desensitizing the nerves. If taken in excess, it can cause an individual to lose muscle control. The smell of Camphor Oil can also be addictive.

History

Camphor is native to Formosa (Taiwan), China and Japan. The tree must be at least 50 years old to produce the oil. It was a well-known remedy against the plague in Persia (Iran) and was also used in embalming. The Chinese used it to build ships and temples due to the durable and aromatic properties of the wood.

Warning

Camphor Oil is toxic and can be poisonous if ingested in excess. Only two grams can be lethal. Even in slight overdoses, manifestations of poisoning can be observed, including extreme thirst, vomiting, and a drop in body temperature. Always consult with a health care professional before ingesting Camphor Oil or using it topically.