Camphor has traditionally been worn around the neck ward off evil spirits and to strengthen the heart. It has been used as an insecticide, particularly in moth balls.
Source:Cinnamomum camphora is native to China, Taiwan and Japan but is grown as far afield as California and India.
Extraction: Camphor essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the wood, roots, and young branches of the evergreen camphor tree.
Aroma: Camphor essential oil has a green, fresh and slightly woody scent reminiscent of pine and tea tree.
Fragrance note: Middle.
Properties: Camphor essential oil is antiseptic and used as an insecticide especially in moth balls. Camphor oil contains terpenic ketone which is why it has such hot, pungent fumes. This makes it excellent for use in massage oils to soften stiff muscles and sooth minor sprains.
Uses: Massage, vaporisation and as an insect repellent.
Blends well with: Bergamot, Birch, Geranium, Rosemary, Sandalwood and Vetiver.
Caution: Camphor essential oil fumes are potent and should not be inhaled by asthmatics. It is safe for massage when properly diluted and better used on a localised area rather than over the entire body.
