Camphor oil: Types, uses, and products. Camphor oil is aromatic and absorbed through the skin. It can provide various health benefits to the human body including pain relief and the easing of inflammation. Our bodies produce it when amino acids in the skin are oxidized, and it can also be synthesized from turpentine.
What is camphor oil used for?
Camphor oil is often used in vapor rubs, liniments, and balms. Some people even use it to ease irritation, itching and pain. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help ease other medical conditions, camphor often has a variety of purposes.
Skin issues
Whenever your dermatologist tells you that she wants you to use a camphor-based product, make sure it’s only 11% or less. However, because this is a natural remedy, do not apply any camphor oil products directly to broken or injured skin. Follow the instructions on labels and packaging carefully.
Pain
Camphor oil is a common ingredient in pain relief medications, including topical analgesics. It may help treat muscle aches and pains, as well as stimulate circulation and increase blood flow to numb and cool nerve endings, which improves circulation of the affected area.
The pain-relieving property of camphor oil is also generally attributed to its interactive effect with receptors on sensory nerves. One 2010 study showed that camphor oil helped relieve lower back pain. With dual hot and cold action, this essential oil found in households around the globe numbs and cools nerve endings while it helps remedy stiff muscles and joints.
Headaches
Essential oils may be able to help with treating headaches, including migraine headaches. Those that contribute to a calming atmosphere could also promote sleep. A 2019 study in mice investigated the effects of Cinnamomum camphora, an essential oil, on migraine.
It found the essential oil could suppress pain-signaling pathways and weaken neurogenic inflammation. Individuals experiencing persistent headaches or migraine headaches should contact their healthcare provider for advice.
Coughs and congestion
Camphor oil is one of a number of anti-cough medications available over the counter. It contains antispasmodic properties that can ease coughs in children or adults and it also has antibacterial properties. It is often used as an ingredient in massage oils or in common chest rubs. When sniffing camphor, put on socks first and try using a heat bowl for warmth.
Superficial burns
A study from 2015 investigated whether camphor oil and coconut oil could help in caring for superficial burns. Two thousand people with burn injuries were analyzed over 14 years. Results indicated that a mixture of the oils showed significant benefits in a hospital setting, including improved quality of life and decreased pain, along with no ‘undue’ side effects.
Chronic diseases
In 2018, a study in mice was performed to see whether white camphor oil had antitumor activity. The study found that the essential oil could stimulate immune cell-dependent regression of skin tumors – in the animal model. Moreover, authors of a 2013 review found that camphor could help treat or prevent serious, life-threatening illnesses like Alzheimer’s and more. They called for further research into its potential role in the treatment of such illnesses.
Precautions and safety
People with sensitive stomachs should take care the first time they try camphor oil, as it can sometimes have adverse effects. First of all, do not mix your camphor pills with any other medications. If this is the case, stop taking them right away and go to a doctor.
Camphor can also burn a person’s mouth and throat, cause vomiting, and make you feel sick to your stomach. Be careful to use it according to the instructions on the label. It’s crucial that people who are currently taking medication consult a healthcare provider before using any camphor product. Also, be sure not to put camphor on an infant or anyone who is allergic to it. People who want try some campshor products should work carefully and discreetly with their healthcare provider first.
Summary
It is important to check with your doctor before using a product that contains camphor oil. It is also important to follow directions for use carefully and read labels of products that contain camphor. Additionally, testing topical camphor products on small areas of skin first can help prevent widespread reactions.