Medicinal Uses Of Camphor
Whitish solid with strong scent, Camphor (Cinnamomum Camphora) is obtained from the wood of the Camphor Laurel. Camphor Laurel can be found in the eastern parts of Asia and some Northern parts of Africa. The chemical formula of this translucent waxy crystalline solid is C10H16O. It can also be composed artificially using Turpentine Oil. Camphor is well known for its medical and spiritual uses. Due to its calming, anti-septic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, anti-neuralgic and decongestant properties, herbalists have been using it since ancient times all over the world.
Basically camphor trees are of two types. 1st is Cinnamomum Camphora, the most common camphor tree which is used to make camphor oil and 2nd type of camphor tree is Borneo Camphor (chemical name of this camphor is Dryobalanops camphora). Both are same in quality. The basic difference between Dryobalanops camphora and Cinnamomum Camphora is of aroma. It is a very good preservative and is also used as medicine. Camphor is good for treating malaria, respiratory problems, infectious diseases, hair problems, cold and cough. During the 19th century, people of Europe and America used camphor for wearing it in the neck for treating respiratory problems. Its disinfectant properties helped people fight deadly bacteria.
Herbalists use camphor to treat the patients of hyper metabolism. Camphor is a good stimulator. By stimulating the circulation of blood, it helps in improving metabolism and digestion. Due to its anti-septic and disinfectant properties, people while taking bath use camphor oil. Some drops of camphor oil in bath water can keep you away from infections particularly in summer and rainy season, when the risk of waterborne diseases is on the peak.
You can also add some drops of camphor oil in drinking water. No doubt its strong odor prohibits people from using it in drinking water. One thing should be kept in mind that nothing is above good health. The strong odor of camphor is also helpful for keeping your home germ free and insect free. By keeping the cover of the bottle of camphor open or by burning a piece of cloth after dipping it in camphor oil, you can easily kills germs. You can also use camphor oil to preserve your food items like grains, cereals, rice etc. Just add one or two drops in your stored food items, you will definitely keep insects away.
The strong odor of camphor is also helpful in treating congestions of bronchi, larynx, pharynx and nose. Many balm and cold rub manufacturing companies use camphor in their products. Camphor oil can do magic in treating the patients who suffer from cramps and spasms. Due to its anti-spasmodic properties, it is a tremendous quick reliever.
The cooling ability of camphor helps treat all types of inflammations (internal and external). It is helpful in curing gastric problems. It relaxes both mind and body. The use of camphor oil gives a cooling effect in summers. To kill dandruff or any kind of skin infections, camphor oil can be used. It also gives health and shine to hair.