Camphor is a naturally occurring chemical compound obtained from the bark of camphor tree. The waxy camphor balls are primarily made of terpenes, (organic compounds produced by plants) which are responsible for the strong aroma of camphor. In nature, these terpenes are important parts of the natural defence system in plants. Terpene is toxic when eaten, so, its aroma protects camphor plant from being eaten by herbivore animals. But the benefits of camphor are plenty.
Camphor is well known for its medicinal and healing properties in traditional and western medicine systems. It is a go-to folk remedy for various conditions like congestion, pain, and inflammations. In fact, some studies suggest that camphor may be effective in healing burns and fungal infections.
Originally a native of India, China and Japan, camphor is widely cultivated in most of the tropical areas of the world. Interestingly, camphor has been listed as a noxious plant in the 'Global Invasive Species Database'.
Camphor is an evergreen tree growing up to a height of 60 feet. Camphor tree can take over the native forests and spread pretty quickly. Its branches tend to spread, giving the tree an umbrella-like appearance. Camphor tree bears elliptical leaves and tiny white flowers. Its fruit is round in shape and is generally purplish to black in colour.
Did you know?
Camphor is not just a tree but it is also an oil and a chemical compound. As a chemical compound, camphor can be obtained from the essential oils of plants like lavender, camphor basil, and rosemary.
Some basic facts about camphor laurel or camphor tree:
- Botanical name: Cinnamomum camphora
- Family: Lauraceae
- Common names: Camphor laurel, Camphor, Camphor tree, Kapoor
- Parts used: Leaves, bark
- Native region and geographical distribution: Camphor varieties are native to tropical regions like China, India and Japan, but it has also been introduced in the USA, especially in Florida.
- Energetics: Cooling