Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora)

The wood of the camphor tree, which is a member of the Lauraceae family, yields the extremely aromatic chemical known as camphor (Cinnamomum camphora). It is extensively utilized in cosmetic, culinary, and medical applications. In addition to its antibacterial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory qualities, camphor has a cooling effect. Traditionally, camphor has been used in various cultures for its therapeutic benefits, especially in treating respiratory issues, skin ailments, and for its use in religious ceremonies.

Camphor Scientific Name

Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Angiosperms
Class: Eudicots
Order: Laurales
Family: Lauraceae
Genus: Cinnamomum
Species: Cinnamomum camphora

cinnamomum camphora common name

English: Camphor
Sanskrit: Karpoora
Hindi: Kapoor
Tamil: Karpooram
Telugu: Karpooram
Bengali: Kapur
Malayalam: Karpooram

Camphor Uses

Respiratory Health - Camphor is used in inhalation to treat coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. It acts as an expectorant, helping to clear mucus from the airways.

Pain Relief - Applied topically, camphor has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for treating muscle pain, arthritis, and inflammatory conditions.

Skin Care - Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, camphor is used in the treatment of skin infections, eczema, and acne. It also aids in cooling and soothing the skin, especially for conditions like burns and rashes.

Mental Clarity and Relaxation - Camphor is also used to induce a calming effect and improve mental clarity. It is often burned as incense in religious practices and for meditation.

Insect Repellent - Camphor's strong aroma helps in repelling insects like mosquitoes, which is why it's often used in mothballs and insect repellents.

Phytochemical Constituents

Camphor contains several active compounds responsible for its medicinal properties. Some of the key phytochemicals include:

Essential Oils: Camphor, 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), Linalool
Terpenes: Alpha-pinene, Beta-pinene, Camphene
Flavonoids: Quercetin, Kaempferol
Phenolic Compounds: Cinnamic acid, Chlorogenic acid

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Govt. of India.

Kirtikar, K.R., & Basu, B.D. (1999). Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol. 2, International Book Distributors, Dehradun, India.

Mahomoodally, M.F., & Ramsay, C. (2013). "Traditional uses and pharmacological properties of camphor (Cinnamomum camphora)." Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 149(2), 203-219.

European Pharmacopoeia, 9th Edition, Council of Europe.

Binu, P., & Nair, R. (2015). "Phytochemical analysis and medicinal uses of camphor." International Journal of Research in Pharmacy and Chemistry, 5(3), 490-495.

World Health Organization (WHO) Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants.