Camphor is a good expectorant

How and where is camphor obtained?

Camphor is a gum resin obtained from camphor tree. It is native to the warm, tropical coasts of eastern Asia, especially Japan, Sumatra, and Borneo. It was one of the products that circulated along the route of spices, known as "Balm of diseases". For example, in Peru it has long been used to treat headaches simply by smelling it.

After the process of obtaining camphor by means of boiling of wood and roots from the camphor tree a crystalline substance with a slight nacreous whitish color is obtained. This product can be obtained in different presentations:

• Camphor alcohol: for all types of external applications such as wounds or or embedded in a piece of cloth to drive away insects. For this we need 90% alcohol and 5-10% camphor.
• Camphor oil: used to make vapors or to decontracting and therapeutic massages or combined with other essential oils for aromatherapy. One part of camphor is macerated in seven parts of olive oil or other neutral oils. Then let it rest for several days until its complete dissolution.
• Camphor ointment: the fat and wax are heated until a homogeneous mass is formed. The camphor is reduced to powder and mixed with the composition before it is completely cooled. Is used for decontracting massages, muscle aches and topical applications. For this we need: 30 g camphor, 90 g of fat and 10 g of crumbled virgin wax.

Therapeutic uses of camphor

• Improve blood circulation.
• Relieves joint pain (rheumatism or arthritis).
• Reduces pain from bruises, sprains or bumps.
• Relieves muscle discomfort.
• Decongests the airways and expel phlegm (expectorant).
• Disinfect wounds.
• Treatment of o nails.
• Insect repellent and.
• Reduces the burning of mosquito bites.
• Treat skin problems like acne or rashes.
• Strengthens the immune system (as an antimicrobial).
• Relaxes the body in combination with other plants such as lavender, chamomile or basil.

Home remedies with camphor

Here are four home remedies that can be applied domestically to:

• For cough: The scent of camphor clears the chest and decongests the nose. To do this, mix almond oil with a few drops of camphor essential oil, mix in a glass jar. Apply a small amount and rub gently on the chest.
• For muscle pain: For his anti-inflammatory propertyApplying the oil for muscle aches by massaging the affected area improves circulation in the area and calms the pain little by little.
• For cold sores: Camphor can decrease pain and itching characteristic of cold sores. To do this, mix a few drops of camphor essential oil in virgin coconut oil and apply with a cotton ball on the cold sore.
• For acne: Will help reduce acne inflammation and redness. Apply it along with another oil on the acne and massage the area for 5 minutes. Then leave it overnight and remove it the next day with plenty of water.

Do you have any contraindications?

Despite its health benefits it is convenient use it with cautionSince an excessive dose can cause problems and become toxic to the body. It is not recommended to use it in:

• Pregnancy,
• Lactation,
• Epilepsy,
• Parkinson's
• Small children.
• Open wounds,
• Nostrils (especially in people with asthma)
• Delicate skin (dermatitis, psoriasis, etc.),
• Liver, biliary, urinary tract infections and colic treatments.

Camphor overingestion can cause: vomiting, colic, irritation and headache.

If you have any doubts, it is advisable to consult your doctor beforehand. They have a Medical Guidance service 24 hours a day, where you can consult any topic related to health.

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What you should know:

• Used in light and recommended doses, camphor has interesting therapeutic applications.
• It is decongestant, improves circulation, is used to relax muscles, improve skin conditions ...
• Despite its health benefits, it is advisable to use it with caution, since an excessive dose can cause problems and become toxic to the body.

Alessandra huerta