Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora), commonly known as the camphor tree, is a large evergreen tree native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Taiwan. The tree is renowned for its aromatic bark and leaves, which contain camphor, a compound with a distinctive smell and a variety of applications. It is widely cultivated for its essential oil, which is used in medicinal, cosmetic, and industrial applications.

Botanical Classification:

Kingdom: Plantae
Order: Laurales
Family: Lauraceae
Genus: Cinnamomum
Species: Cinnamomum camphora

Plant Characteristics: Cinnamomum camphora is characterized by:

Flowers: The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers arranged in clusters. They are typically yellowish or greenish and are not prominent in the overall appearance of the tree.
Leaves: The leaves are alternately arranged, elliptical to ovate, and have a glossy, dark green appearance. They are aromatic and release a camphor scent when crushed.
Growth Habit: It is a large evergreen tree that can reach heights of 10-30 meters. The tree has a dense, rounded canopy and a smooth or slightly fissured bark that exudes a camphoraceous aroma.
Soil and Light: Prefers well-drained soils and full sunlight. It is adaptable to a range of soil types and can tolerate some shade. It thrives in subtropical and tropical climates.

Chemical Composition and Structure: The chemical composition of Cinnamomum camphora includes:

Camphor: The primary active compound, camphor, is present in significant amounts in the leaves, bark, and wood. Camphor has a distinctive aromatic smell and is used in various medicinal and industrial applications.
Essential Oils: The essential oil extracted from the tree's parts contains camphor, 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), and other terpenes that contribute to its therapeutic and aromatic properties.
Limonene and Beta-Pinene: Found in smaller quantities, these compounds also contribute to the essential oil's fragrance and potential benefits.
Flavonoids and Tannins: Present in the leaves and bark, these compounds provide additional antioxidant and astringent properties.

Uses and Benefits:

Medicinal: Camphor, derived from the tree, is used in various medicinal preparations for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-pruritic properties. It is commonly used in topical ointments, balms, and cough syrups to relieve coughs, muscle pain, and itching.
Cosmetic: The essential oil of Cinnamomum camphora is included in skincare products for its antiseptic and stimulating properties. It is used in formulations for acne treatment, skin toning, and revitalization.
Aromatic: The camphor scent is used in aromatherapy for its stimulating and clarifying effects. It is also used in perfumes and as a natural insect repellent.
Industrial: Camphor is used in the production of various chemical products, including plastics and lacquers. It is also used in some traditional and modern applications, such as in the making of mothballs.

Applications:

Medicinal: Used in topical treatments for pain relief, anti-inflammatory applications, and as a cough suppressant. Commonly found in ointments, balms, and cough syrups.
Cosmetic: Incorporated into skincare products for its antiseptic, toning, and revitalizing properties. Found in creams, lotions, and facial treatments.
Aromatic: Utilized in aromatherapy for its stimulating and clarifying effects. Included in perfumes, air fresheners, and insect repellents.
Industrial: Employed in the manufacture of plastics, lacquers, and other chemical products.

Environmental and Safety Considerations:

Environmental Impact: The camphor tree is an evergreen that provides habitat and shade in its native regions. It can be invasive in non-native areas, where it might outcompete local flora.
Safety: Generally considered safe for external use in recommended amounts. However, camphor can be toxic if ingested in large quantities or if used excessively. It should be used with caution, particularly around children and pregnant women. Essential oils should be used according to guidelines to avoid potential skin irritation or sensitization.

INCI:


Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.
Synonyms:

CAS: 92201-50-8 EC number 295-980-1