Camphor, a waxy, white compound derived from plants such as camphor laurel and camphor basil, is known for its strong, aromatic odor and its many medicinal properties. Camphor may be used to treat several common conditions, although many of its uses remain unstudied. When used inappropriately, camphor may be associated with several side effects and risks. Consult your health care provider before using any over-the-counter product if you have a medical condition or take medication.
Benefits
The health information website Drugs.com classifies camphor as a topical analgesic, or a product that reduces pain when it is applied topically to an inflamed or painful area. Camphor, which is used as an ingredient in topical cough and cold medicines, is included in some products as an adjunct to other pain-relieving ingredients, such as eucalyptus and menthol. A warning from the New York City Department of Health notes that camphor alone is not approved as a treatment for colds and coughs. However, it may heighten the decongestant effects of such products.
Other Uses
Camphor is also used for several household purposes unrelated to its use in medicine. The New York City Department of Health acknowledges camphor's popularity as a pest control measure and air freshener. The strong fragrance of camphor may repel some types of pests, but camphor is not approved by the Environmental Protection Agency as a pesticide. Similarly, although camphor cubes can give air a crisp, natural aroma, no studies have evaluated its safety or efficacy as an air freshener.
Side Effects
When applied topically to the skin, camphor is associated with relatively few side effects. Drugs.com notes that camphor can cause irritation and pain if it contacts the eyes, ears or nose. Rinse the area thoroughly if this contact occurs. Rarely, some people may experience a serious allergic reaction to camphor. Symptoms of camphor allergy include rash, hives, tightening of the chest, difficulty breathing and severe inflammation. Consult a licensed practitioner promptly if you experience these effects.
Contraindications
There are several contraindications for camphor use, or circumstances that make it inadvisable to use the product. If you have a known allergy to camphor, do not use the product. Drugs.com also advises against the use of camphor for pregnant and nursing women, since its effects have not been studied. MayoClinic.com advises parents not to apply products containing camphor to the skin of children under 2 years age. A 2008 case report, published by the American College of Chest Physicians, concluded that these products make it difficult for babies and toddlers to breathe.
Camphor Poisoning
Do not take camphor by mouth under any circumstances. When used internally, camphor is extremely toxic, even in relatively low doses. In 2008, the New York City Department of Health reported that three children in the Bronx had been recently hospitalized with seizures related to camphor poisoning. Symptoms of camphor poisoning occur within five to 20 minutes of ingestion and include seizures, stomachache, nausea, vomiting, irritability and agitation. Call 911 or a poison control center immediately if you or your child ingests camphor.
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