CAMPHOR

Introduction:

        Kapur trees are found in Japan, Taiwan, Korea, China, Vietnam etc. Trees go up to 60 to 90 feet in height. Leaves are green with pointed end, waxy/glossy appearance, when crushed it gives typical smell of kapur. Flowers are small white and have fragrance of Kapur, Fruits are round, long and black in colour. There are many varieties of Kapur but two varieties of Kapur is used for medicinal purpose, Bhimseni Kapur and Normal Kapur. Bhimseni Kapur is raw and found directly from the tree, while normal Kapur is prepared using vapour on chipped wood. Camphor, Menthol and Thymol when put together in equal parts, liquifies. This is known as Amrutdhara and is very useful for many ailments. Kapur is widely used in religious ceremonies and pooja.

Uses:

1. Kapur powder is useful in cough and cold.
2. Powder is given for indigestion, flatulence and as appetizer, also removes excess fat from the body.
3. Melted Kapur, mixed with water is applied to cure skin infections.
4. Mustard oil mixed with Kapur or Amrutdhara (Camphor +Thymol +Menthol in equal parts) is useful for pain relief in arthritis, gout etc. and used for relief in cough and cold also.
5. Camphor powder added to hot coconut oil is applied on scalp to remove lice and irritation.
6. Kapur mixed with Sessame oil and honey is used to heal burns.
7. Kapur is added to betel leaves as mouth freshener and for bad breath.

Caution: 1. Not to be given to lactating mothers and during pregnancy.

     2. Overdoses of Kapur may cause nausea and vomiting.

     3. To be taken strictly under the advice of an ayurvedic practitioner.