CAMPHOR: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Camphor used to be made by distilling the bark and wood of the camphor tree. Today, camphor is usually manufactured from turpentine oil. It is used in products such as Vicks VapoRub.

People apply camphor to the skin to relieve pain and reduce itching. It is also applied to the skin on the neck and chest so that it can be breathed in to reduce the urge to cough. It is also used for other purposes, but there is no good scientific evidence to support other uses of camphor.

Oral camphor is unsafe. It is also important not to apply camphor to broken skin, because it can enter the body quickly and reach concentrations that are high enough to cause poisoning.

How does it work ?

Camphor seems to stimulate nerve endings that relieve symptoms such as pain and itching when applied to the skin. Camphor is also active against fungi that cause infections in the toenails.

View References

REFERENCES:

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Skoglund, R. R., Ware, L. L., Jr., and Schanberger, J. E. Prolonged seizures due to contact and inhalation exposure to camphor. A case report. Clin.Pediatr.(Phila) 1977;16(10):901-902. View abstract.

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.

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