Cinnamomum camphora
·
Lauraceae
·
China

Camphor

Camphorwood

Useful parts

Leaves, Roots, Bark

Key actions

Expectorant, Bronchodilator, Decongestant, Antimicrobial, Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, Antifungal

Active compounds

Terpene derivatives, Terpenoids, Essential oil

This Site is for Educational Use Only: The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. I am not a licensed medical professional. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any medicinal plants, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.

Possible Proposed Uses

  • Cough suppressant
  • Respiratory congestion
  • Asthma
  • Skin infections
  • Pain and itching relief
  • Warts
  • Cold sores

Mechanism of Action

  • Terpenoids expand bronchial tubes
  • Antiseptic action prevents pathogen growth
  • Stimulates nerve endings to relieve pain and itching

Possible Side Effects

  • Highly toxic if ingested
  • Seizures
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Convulsions
  • CNS depression
  • Organ damage with repeated concentrated use
  • Fatality possible

Possible Drug Interactions

  • Anticoagulants
  • Antiplatelets
  • Never ingest
  • Avoid concentrated prolonged use

Abigail's notes

Last updated on:
May 20, 2026

Deeper research options for you (because I would never ask you to just take my word for it)

Phytochemistry and Applications of Cinnamomum camphora Essential Oils https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9102863/

Camphor’s Therapeutic Uses and Potential Hazards: An In-Depth Review of Its Medicinal Applications https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12943631/

Utilization of Cinnamomum Camphora Leaves as a Renewable Energy Source https://www.iomcworld.org/articles/utilization-of-cinnamomum-camphora-leaves-as-a-renewable-energy-source-94263.html

Camphor's Therapeutic Uses and Potential Hazards: An In-Depth Review of Its Medicinal Applications https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41752424/

Camphor https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/chemistry/camphor

Disclaimer: The content on this website is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No provider-patient relationship is created by use of this site. The author makes no representations regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information and assumes no liability for any adverse effects resulting from the use of plants or remedies described herein.

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