Camphor or Kapur is a versatile ingredient that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, beauty, and skin care. Derived from the wood of the camphor tree, this natural ingredient boasts a range of amazing benefits for the skin and hair. Camphor, despite its cooling properties, is a unique herb that helps to balance Kapha Dosha in the body. Additionally, it can aid in reducing body fat and relieving pain and discomfort caused by imbalanced Vata Dosha.[1] In this article, we will explore 12 amazing benefits of camphor for skin and hair.
10 Benefits of Camphor
Camphor has various skin, hair and health benefits when used along with other medicinal herbs in formulations. Here are some of those benefits:
1. Relieves Itching and Irritation
Primary Benefit: Camphor has a cooling and soothing effect on the skin, which makes it an effective remedy for itching and irritation. When applied topically, camphor helps to calm down the skin and reduce inflammation, thereby relieving itching and irritation. [2]
Secondary Benefit: It is especially useful for people with dry and itchy skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. [2]
2. Treats Acne and Pimples
Primary Benefit: Camphor has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it an effective treatment for acne and pimples. It helps to kill the bacteria that cause acne and reduce the inflammation associated with it. [3]
Secondary Benefit: When applied to the affected area, camphor also helps to unclog pores and remove excess oil from the skin, which can prevent future breakouts. [3]
3. Reduces Wrinkles and Fine Lines
Primary Benefit: Camphor is rich in antioxidants, which help to fight off free radicals that can cause premature ageing of the skin. [4]
Secondary Benefit: Regular use of camphor can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and keep the skin looking youthful and radiant. [4]
4. Stimulates Hair Growth
Primary Benefit: Camphor oil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for hair loss and to stimulate hair growth. It helps to improve blood circulation to the scalp, which in turn promotes hair growth. [5]
Secondary Benefit: When applied to the scalp, camphor also helps to strengthen hair follicles, which can prevent hair loss. [5]
5. Soothes Scalp Irritation
Primary Benefit: Camphor has a cooling and soothing effect on the scalp, which makes it an effective remedy for scalp irritation. It can help to calm down the scalp and reduce inflammation, thereby relieving itching and irritation. [6]
Secondary Benefit: Camphor is especially useful for people with scalp conditions like dandruff and psoriasis. [6]
6. Treats Fungal Infections
Primary Benefit: Camphor has antifungal properties that make it an effective treatment for fungal infections like ringworm and athlete’s foot. [7]
Secondary Benefit: It helps to kill the fungus that causes these infections and reduce the inflammation associated with them. When applied topically, camphor can also help to relieve itching and irritation caused by these infections. [7]
7. Improves Skin Texture
Primary Benefit: Camphor has properties that help to tighten and tone the skin, which can improve its texture and appearance. [8]
Secondary Benefit: It can also help to reduce the size of pores and prevent the accumulation of oil and dirt on the skin, which can lead to acne and other skin problems. [8]
8. Relieves Muscle and Joint Pain
Primary Benefit: Camphor has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that make it an effective remedy for muscle and joint pain when used in conjunction with other medical herbs. It can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected area, and provide relief from pain and discomfort. [9]
Secondary Benefit: Camphor is especially useful for people with conditions like arthritis, gout, and rheumatism. [9]
9. Dark Circles and Puffiness
Primary Benefit: Camphor has a cooling and soothing effect on the skin, which can help to reduce dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. [10]
Secondary Benefit: It can also help to improve blood circulation to the area, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. [10]
10. Acts as a Natural Insect Repellent
Primary Benefit: Camphor has a strong and distinct odour that acts as a natural insect repellent. [11]
Secondary Benefit: It can help to keep mosquitoes, flies, and other insects at bay, making it an ideal ingredient for outdoor activities like camping and hiking. [11]
11. Relieves Sunburn
Primary Benefit: Camphor has a cooling and soothing effect on the skin, which makes it an effective remedy for sunburn. [12]
Secondary Benefit: It can help to reduce inflammation and redness caused by sunburn, and provide relief from pain and discomfort. [12]
12. Promotes Relaxation and Reduces Stress
Primary Benefit: Camphor has a calming and relaxing effect on the mind and body, which makes it an effective remedy for stress and anxiety. [13]
Secondary Benefit: It can help to reduce tension and promote relaxation, making it an ideal ingredient for aromatherapy and relaxation practices like meditation and yoga. [13]
How to Use Camphor for Skin and Hair
Camphor can be used in a variety of ways to reap its benefits for the skin and hair. Here are some popular methods:
Camphor Oil
Camphor oil is a popular way to use camphor for skin and hair. It can be mixed with other carrier oils like coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil and applied to the skin or hair. Camphor oil can also be used for massage to relieve muscle and joint pain.
Camphor Creams and Lotions
Camphor creams and lotions are readily available in the market and can be used to treat skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. They can also be used to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Camphor Hair Masks
Camphor hair masks are an effective way to stimulate hair growth and improve hair texture. To make a camphor hair mask, mix camphor oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil and apply it to the scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing it off with a mild shampoo.
Camphor Aromatherapy
Camphor can be used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Simply add a few drops of camphor oil to a diffuser or vaporizer and inhale the aroma.
Precautions and Side Effects
While camphor is generally safe for external use, it can be toxic when ingested or applied in large amounts. It is important to use camphor products in moderation and follow the instructions on the label. [14]
Camphor can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. Before using camphor products, it is advisable to perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions.
Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children should avoid using camphor products as they can be harmful in these groups.
FAQs
1. Can camphor be used for treating respiratory problems?
2. Can camphor be used for treating fungal infections?
3. Can camphor be used as a mouthwash?
4. Can camphor be used for treating headaches?
5. Can camphor be used for treating insect bites?
Conclusion
Camphor is a natural ingredient that offers a range of amazing benefits for the skin and hair. From relieving itching and irritation to promoting hair growth and reducing stress, camphor has numerous uses and applications. When used in moderation and according to instructions, camphor can be a safe and effective addition to your beauty and wellness routine.
Disclaimer: This article is from a health and wellness perspective only and does not constitute medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a trained medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.
References:
- Ayurveda: A new dimension in the era of modern medicine
- TRP channels as novel players in the pathogenesis and therapy of itch
- Herbal Products for Acne Vulgaris: A Review
- Camphor Induces Proliferative and Anti-senescence Activities in Human Primary Dermal Fibroblasts and Inhibits UV-Induced Wrinkle Formation in Mouse Skin
- The Therapeutic and medicinal Use of Camphor in Ordinary Life
- Scalp Pruritus: Review of the Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Management
- Recommended Medicinal Plants as Source of Natural Products: A Review
- Dermal Absorption of Camphor, Menthol, and Methyl Salicylate in Humans
- Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora), a traditional remedy with the history of treating several disease
- Sensory characteristics of camphor
- Mosquito repellent activities of ocimum volatile oils
- Neurotoxic effect of active ingredients in sunscreen products, a contemporary review
- The effects of d-camphor inhalation on psychophysiological parameters among healthy participants
- Camphor toxicity
