Camphor, White

(Cinnamonum camphorum)

INGREDIENT IN: ^LeFortitude, ^LeIntensity

THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES: anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, carminative, convulsant, diaphoretic, insecticide, neurotoxin, nervine, sedative, stimulant, vulnerary

RESONANCE: physical, mental

PLANT FAMILY: Lauraceae

PART UTILIZED: leaves

EXTRACTION METHOD: steam distilled

APPLICATION: MUST be diluted very well and should be used sparingly.

AROMATIC CONSIDERATIONS: Camphor is extremely pungent. Diffused with care, Camphor can be useful as a cardiac stimulant and to open blocked respiratory passages.

EMOTIONAL - SPIRITUAL - MENTAL ASPECTS: The aroma of Camphor seems to be very effective for a particular type of nervous depression where great agitation precedes a loss of energy and stamina and a feeling of deep despair.

PHYSICAL ASPECTS: Camphor has been used, in dilution, to stimulate circulation, metabolism, and digestion. Camphor is also a strong disinfectant and decongestant. It has a reputation as anti-inflammatory and as a pain reliever. I find the aroma and the list of cautions of Camphor oil daunting, and personally, almost always use something else instead.

CAUTIONS: Camphor is considered by many aromatherapists to be too strong to be used effectively, especially as a single oil. A small amount of Camphor taken internally could easily prove fatal. Overdose, even topically, has been known to cause convulsions and vomiting. Pregnant women and people with epilepsy or other seizure disorders should certainly avoid its use altogether.

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