CAS: 8008-51-3
Camphor oil (CAS: 8008-51-3) is an essential oil steam-distilled from the wood, roots, and stumps of the camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora). It is known for its strong, penetrating aromatic odor. The crude oil contains various components including camphor, safrole, cineole, pinene, and limonene. Commercial preparations often refer to 'white camphor oil,' which is refined to have most of the safrole (a known carcinogen) removed, making it safer for approved applications. Brown and yellow camphor oils contain higher levels of safrole and are less commonly used or restricted.
It is widely used for its medicinal properties, including as a topical analgesic, counterirritant, and decongestant. It is also utilized in aromatherapy for its stimulating and soothing qualities, and historically as an insect repellent. In traditional medicine, it has been applied to relieve pain, inflammation, and respiratory congestion.
Camphor oil finds application in the pharmaceutical industry as an active ingredient in topical pain relief balms, liniments, chest rubs, and nasal decongestants. In the personal care and cosmetics sector, it is used in limited concentrations in some perfumes, soaps, and lotions. It is also employed in aromatherapy products like essential oil diffusers and massage oils. Additionally, it has historical and niche applications as an ingredient in some insecticides and moth repellents.
Camphor oil can be toxic if ingested, with symptoms ranging from nausea and vomiting to convulsions and central nervous system depression. It can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, or chemical burns in sensitive individuals, especially if applied undiluted or to broken skin. Vapors can be irritating to the respiratory system. Brown and yellow camphor oils, due to their high safrole content, are restricted and classified as carcinogens. White camphor oil, while safer due to reduced safrole, still poses risks upon ingestion. It is flammable. Precautions include keeping it out of reach of children, avoiding contact with eyes and mucous membranes, not applying to broken skin, and exercising caution with pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals with certain medical conditions.
Camphoroil; Cinnamomum camphora (camphor) bark oil; Camphor wood oil; Laurel camphor oil; True camphor oil; Camphor distillate
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