Camphor (sat Kafoor) Benefits,Side effects and their Uses

INTRDUCTION:

Sat Kafoor, also known as Camphor Extract, is a white, crystalline substance derived from the wood of the camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) or synthesized from turpentine oil. Renowned for its strong aroma and cooling properties, Sat Kafoor holds a prominent place in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha.

• Urdu/Hindi: Sat Kafoor (ست کافور)
• English: Camphor.
• Sanskrit: Karpura.
• Persian: Kafur.
• Arabic: Kafoor.
• Tamil: Karpuram.

Health Benefits of Sat Kafoor (Camphor)

1. Respiratory Relief

• Decongestant: Camphor helps relieve nasal and chest congestion when inhaled (e.g., in steam or balms).
• Cough Suppressant: Used in vapor rubs to calm cough and open airways.
• Asthma & Bronchitis Relief: Camphor oil or vapors can help ease breathing.

2. Pain Relief

• Analgesic (Painkiller): When applied topically, it provides relief from muscle and joint pain.
• Arthritis & Rheumatism: Helps reduce inflammation and stiffness in joints.

3. Antiseptic & Antifungal

• Wound Healing: Camphor has mild antiseptic properties; it can help clean wounds and prevent infection.
• Fungal Skin Infections: Used in ointments to treat fungal infections like athlete’s foot and ringworm.

4. Skin & Hair Care

• Itching & Irritation: Soothes skin itchiness, eczema, and rashes.
• Acne Treatment: Has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pimples and redness.
• Lice & Dandruff Control: Camphor oil helps eliminate lice and reduce dandruff when used with coconut oil.

5. Anti-inflammatory

• Reduces swelling and redness when applied to inflamed areas or insect bites.

6. Mental & Emotional Benefits

• Calming Aroma: Camphor’s scent promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and improves sleep quality.
• Headache Relief: Used in balms or oils to relieve headaches and migraines.

7. Digestive Aid (Traditional Use)

• In small doses (under supervision), used in Unani and Ayurvedic systems for gas, indigestion, and stomach cramps.

8. Antispasmodic

• Helps relieve muscle cramps and spasms when applied externally.

9. Insect Repellent

• Natural moth and mosquito repellent; used in wardrobes and homes to keep insects away.

SIDE EFFECTS:

Camphor is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when applied to the skin in a cream or lotion in low concentrations. Camphor can cause some minor side effects such as skin redness and irritation. Do not use undiluted camphor products or products containing more than 11% camphor. These can be irritating and unsafe. Camphor is also LIKELY SAFE for most adults when inhaled as vapor in small amounts as a part of  aromatherapy. Don’t use more than 1 tablespoon camphor solution per quart of water.

Do not heat camphor-containing products (Vicks VapoRub, BenGay, Heet, many others) in the microwave. The product can explode and cause severe burns.

Camphor-containing products are LIKELY UNSAFE when applied to broken or injured skin. Camphor is easily absorbed through broken skin and can reach toxic levels in the body.

Camphor is UNSAFE when taken by mouth by adults. Ingesting camphor can cause severe side effects, including death. The first symptoms of camphor toxicity occur quickly (within 5 to 90 minutes), and can include burning of the mouth and throat, nausea, and vomiting. Other symptoms affect the nervous system, such as seizures, confusion, and muscular  contractions, as well as effects on vision.

How to Use Sat Kafoor (Camphor Extract)

1. For Respiratory Relief

• Steam Inhalation:
  • Boil water in a bowl.
  • Add a small piece (about a pea-sized) of camphor or a few drops of camphor oil.
  • Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam deeply for 5-10 minutes.
  • Helps clear nasal congestion and ease breathing.
• Chest Rub:
  • Dilute camphor oil with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) in a ratio of 1:10.
  • Gently massage on the chest, throat, and back.
  • Avoid applying near the nose or mouth directly.

2. For Pain Relief and Muscle Aches

• Mix camphor oil with a carrier oil.
• Apply gently to sore muscles, joints, or areas of inflammation.
• Massage until absorbed.
• Use 2-3 times daily, avoid broken skin.

3. For Skin Issues

• Dilute camphor oil before applying on skin (1 drop camphor oil + 10 drops carrier oil).
• Apply on itchy spots, insect bites, or fungal infections.
• Do a patch test first to check for sensitivity

4. As an Insect Repellent

• Place small camphor tablets or cubes in cupboards, drawers, or corners to repel insects and moths.
• Alternatively, add diluted camphor oil to water in a spray bottle and lightly mist around rooms.

5. For Aromatherapy and Relaxation

• Add a few drops of camphor oil to a diffuser.
• Let the aroma fill the room to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Important Precautions

This Article is for Basic Information. Contact a professional doctor before using it.

HAKEEM KARAMAT ULLAH

+923090560000