Camphor effects. Camphor: Versatile Natural Remedy with Powerful Health Benefits and Precautions

11.08.202322.06.2023 by alexxlab

What are the main uses of camphor in skincare and pain relief. How does camphor help with respiratory issues and fungal infections. What precautions should be taken when using camphor products.

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What is Camphor and How is it Produced?

Camphor is a terpene compound derived from the wood of camphor trees (Cinnamomum camphora) through steam distillation. While traditionally extracted from natural sources, modern camphor is often synthesized from turpentine. This versatile substance has a strong, distinct odor and is easily absorbed through the skin, making it a popular ingredient in topical preparations.

Key characteristics of camphor include:

Organic compound belonging to the terpene family
Extracted from camphor tree wood or synthesized from turpentine
Strong odor and taste
Easily absorbed through the skin
Used in creams, ointments, and lotions

The Multifaceted Benefits of Camphor for Skin Health

Camphor offers a wide range of benefits for skin health, thanks to its unique properties. Its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory qualities make it an excellent choice for various skin concerns.

Skin Irritation and Itching Relief

How does camphor help soothe irritated skin? Camphor-infused lotions and creams can effectively alleviate skin irritation and itchiness. The cooling sensation provided by camphor helps to numb nerve endings, reducing the urge to scratch and providing relief from discomfort.

Wound Healing and Anti-Aging Properties

Can camphor promote wound healing and combat signs of aging? A 2015 animal study demonstrated camphor’s effectiveness in treating wounds and reducing ultraviolet light-induced wrinkles. This potential anti-aging effect may be attributed to camphor’s ability to stimulate elastin and collagen production, essential components for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.

Application Tips

To harness the skin benefits of camphor:

Choose a camphor-containing cream or lotion
Apply to the affected area at least once daily
Observe for any adverse reactions and discontinue use if irritation occurs

Camphor as a Natural Pain Reliever

Camphor’s pain-relieving properties make it a popular choice for managing various types of discomfort. Its ability to create a tingling, warming, or cooling sensation can help distract from pain and promote relief.

Topical Pain Relief

How effective is camphor in relieving pain when applied topically? A small 2015 study found that a spray containing camphor, menthol, and essential oils of clove and eucalyptus effectively alleviated mild to moderate pain when applied to joints, shoulders, and the lower back over a 14-day period.

Arthritis Management

Can camphor help manage arthritis symptoms? Products containing camphor, such as Icy Hot and Biofreeze, may be beneficial in relieving pain, inflammation, and swelling associated with arthritis. The hot or cold sensations produced by these creams can serve as a distraction from pain, while camphor’s anti-inflammatory effects, demonstrated in animal models, may contribute to its effectiveness in treating arthritis.

Application Methods

To use camphor for pain relief:

Apply camphor-containing sprays or ointments to the affected area several times daily
For arthritis, use camphor creams on affected joints as needed
Be aware of the tingling, warming, or cooling sensation that may occur upon application

Camphor’s Role in Respiratory Health

Camphor’s decongestant and cough suppressant properties make it a valuable remedy for respiratory issues, particularly in children.

Congestion and Cough Relief

How does camphor help with respiratory symptoms? A 2010 study found that vapor rub containing camphor was highly effective in relieving nighttime cough, congestion, and sleep difficulties in children with upper respiratory infections. The study demonstrated that camphor-based products could provide significant relief for common cold symptoms.

Safe Usage for Children

When using camphor products for children’s respiratory issues:

Always follow age-appropriate dosing instructions
Apply to the chest and throat area before bedtime
Never apply directly under the nose or on broken skin
Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen

Camphor’s Antifungal Properties: Treating Toenail Fungus

The antifungal properties of camphor make it a promising treatment option for toenail fungus, a common and often persistent condition.

Effectiveness Against Toenail Fungus

Can camphor effectively treat toenail fungus? Research from 2011 demonstrated that Vicks VapoRub, which contains camphor along with menthol and eucalyptus oil, showed positive results in treating toenail fungus. In the study, 15 out of 18 participants experienced improvement after using the ointment for 48 weeks.

Application Method

To use camphor for toenail fungus treatment:

Apply a camphor-containing product like Vicks VapoRub to affected toenails
Use the treatment a few times daily
Continue application consistently for several weeks to see results
Consult a healthcare provider if the condition persists or worsens

Camphor in Burn Treatment: A Natural Healing Aid

Camphor’s healing properties extend to burn treatment, offering a natural alternative to conventional remedies.

Burn Wound Healing

How effective is camphor in treating burns? A 2018 animal study found that an ointment containing camphor, sesame oil, and honey was more beneficial than Vaseline in decreasing the healing time for second-degree burn wounds. This natural combination showed promising results in promoting faster and more effective burn healing.

Application Guidelines

When using camphor for burn treatment:

Ensure the burn is properly cleaned and cooled
Apply a thin layer of camphor-containing ointment once daily
Cover with a sterile dressing if necessary
Seek medical attention for severe burns or if signs of infection develop

Safety Precautions and Potential Side Effects of Camphor Use

While camphor offers numerous health benefits, it’s crucial to use it correctly and be aware of potential risks and side effects.

Important Safety Guidelines

What precautions should be taken when using camphor?

Never ingest camphor or apply it to broken skin, as it can be toxic if absorbed in large amounts
Use only as directed and in recommended doses
Keep out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion
Avoid use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless advised by a healthcare provider
Discontinue use if skin irritation or allergic reactions occur

Potential Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of camphor use?

While generally safe when used as directed, camphor may cause side effects in some individuals, including:

Skin irritation or redness
Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
Nausea, vomiting, or seizures if ingested in large amounts
Respiratory distress if inhaled in high concentrations

If you experience any concerning symptoms after using camphor products, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.

Interactions and Contraindications

Are there any interactions or contraindications to be aware of when using camphor?

Camphor may interact with certain medications or exacerbate some health conditions. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using camphor products if you:

Have liver or kidney disease
Are taking medications that affect liver function
Have a history of seizures
Are pregnant or breastfeeding

By following these safety guidelines and being aware of potential side effects, you can maximize the benefits of camphor while minimizing risks.

What Is Camphor? Health Uses and Precautions

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Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm. D. — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on August 8, 2019

Overview

Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora) is a terpene (organic compound) that’s commonly used in creams, ointments, and lotions. Camphor oil is the oil extracted from the wood of camphor trees and processed by steam distillation. It can be used topically to relieve pain, irritation, and itching. Camphor is also used to relieve chest congestion and inflammatory conditions.

It has a strong odor and taste and is easily absorbed through the skin. Camphor is currently made out of turpentine, but it’s still safe to use as long as you use it correctly. It has the potential for side effects, especially if you use it in high doses. Never take camphor internally or apply it to broken skin, as it can be toxic.

Camphor has a wide variety of topical uses due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to treat skin conditions, improve respiratory function, and relieve pain. Continue reading to learn more about the different uses for camphor and its supporting scientific evidence.

Camphor for skin

Lotions and creams containing camphor can be used to relieve skin irritation and itchiness and may help to improve the overall appearance of skin. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties that make it useful in healing infections. A 2015 animal study found camphor to be effective in treating wounds and ultraviolet light-induced wrinkles, making it a potential ingredient in anti-aging cosmetics. This may be due to its ability to increase elastin and collagen production. Use a camphor cream on the area you’d like to treat at least once per day.

Relieves pain

Applying camphor to the skin helps to relieve pain and inflammation. A small 2015 study found that a spray containing natural ingredients such as camphor, menthol, and essential oils of clove and eucalyptus was effective in relieving mild to moderate pain. The spray was applied to the joints, shoulders, and lower back for a period of 14 days. You may feel a tingling, warming, or cooling sensation when you use camphor products. Apply a camphor spray or ointment to the affected area several times per day.

Heals burns

Camphor balms and creams can be used to heal burn wounds. A 2018 animal study found that an ointment containing camphor, sesame oil, and honey decreased the healing time for second-degree burn wounds and was found to be more beneficial than using Vaseline. To use, apply an ointment to the affected area once a day.

Treats arthritis

Camphor products such as Icy Hot and Biofreeze may be effective in relieving pain, inflammation, and swelling due to arthritis. The hot or cold sensations that arise after application of these creams may distract you from the pain. Camphor has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in animal models that are useful in treating arthritis. To use, apply the camphor cream to any affected areas several times per day.

Treats toenail fungus

The antifungal properties of camphor make it beneficial in treating toenail fungus. Research from 2011 found that using Vicks VapoRub, which contains camphor as well as menthol and eucalyptus oil, was effective in treating toenail fungus. In the study, 15 of 18 people showed positive results after using the ointment for 48 weeks. To use, apply Vicks VapoRub to the affected toenails a few times per day.

Relieves congestion and coughing

Camphor oil works as a decongestant and cough suppressant. According to a 2010 study, vapor rub was most effective in relieving night cough, congestion, and sleep difficulty in children with upper respiratory tract infections.

To use, place 2 teaspoons of Vicks VapoRub in a bowl of hot water. Hold your head over the bowl and cover your head with a towel as you inhale the vapors. You can also apply the balm to your chest or feet and then cover them with socks. Avoid putting it in or around your nostrils.

Antispasmodic

Camphor products may also be used as a muscle rub. It may help to relieve muscle cramps, spasms, and stiffness. A 2004 study found that camphor has antispasmodic and relaxant properties. To use, massage a muscle rub such as Bengay onto your sore muscles a few times a day.

Other uses

Scientific research is limited for some of the purported uses for camphor and the evidence is largely anecdotal. Camphor oil may also be used to treat:

hair loss
acne
warts
earaches
cold sores
hemorrhoids
heart disease symptoms
poor blood circulation
flatulence
anxiety
depression
muscle spasms
low libido

Camphor is generally safe for adults when it’s used correctly. Lotions or creams containing small amounts of camphor can be applied to your skin. Never use undiluted camphor or products containing more than 11 percent camphor. Always do a skin patch test before using camphor on your skin. Apply a small amount of the camphor product to your inner forearm and wait 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs.

Minor side effects such as redness and irritation can occur when using camphor topically. Camphor products should not be used on broken or injured skin because the body could absorb toxic levels. It also can cause respiratory problems such as coughing and wheezing when inhaled. Avoid contact with your eyes.

Don’t use more than 1 tablespoon of camphor solution per quart of water when using it through steam inhalation. Do not heat products containing camphor, such as Vicks VapoRub or Bengay, in the microwave as they have the potential to explode. Never ignite camphor as it has been shown to cause burns.

Note: Camphor should never be ingesting internally as this can cause serious side effects and even death. Signs of camphor toxicity appear within 5 to 90 minutes of ingestion. Symptoms include burning of the mouth and throat, nausea, and vomiting.

Taking camphor internally and using it topically is thought to cause liver damage. Don’t use camphor if you have any medical conditions affecting your liver. You also shouldn’t take camphor if you have asthma or epilepsy.

Do not use camphor products if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it has the potential to cause birth defects. Children under the age of 2 should not use camphor products at all. Ingesting camphor has been shown to be fatal to toddlers, even in small doses. It can also cause seizures in children.

Only the white camphor oil is safe for health uses. Brown and yellow camphor oil contains high amounts of safrole. This makes them toxic and cancer-causing. Most products you find will only use white camphor oil. If you are buying pure camphor oil, make sure it is the white oil.

Most camphor products come in the form of a cream, ointment, or balm that can be applied to your skin. You can find sprays and liquid bath soaks. Some anti-itch and shaving creams contain camphor. Some beauty products like face wash, nail polish, and ChapStick contain camphor. It’s also a common ingredient in insect repellents.

Popular products containing camphor include:

Tiger Balm
Vicks VapoRub
Bengay
Icy Hot
Biofreeze

Camphor has the potential to bring many benefits to your health if it’s used properly. Make sure you always follow manufacturers’ instructions and use exactly as directed. Speak to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns regarding the use of camphor. You can also discuss any health issues you are intending to treat with camphor.

Last medically reviewed on June 19, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

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Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm.D. — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on August 8, 2019