Natural camphor (crystals)

Camphor is a natural substance derived from the wood and roots of the camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora). It is whitish, waxy or crystalline, with a characteristic aromatic and slightly pungent scent. It is best known for its warming effect and stimulation of blood circulation. At very low concentrations it can produce a brief, mild sensation of coolness, quickly replaced by warmth – however, this is not the pronounced cooling effect of menthol. It is often used together with menthol for a pronounced combined cooling–warming effect, as in sports balms of the Tiger Balm type.

Main properties

• Warming effect – promotes microcirculation and creates a sensation of warmth.Mild analgesic action – relieves pain in muscles and joints.
• Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial – helps reduce inflammation and protects the skin from infections.
• Aromatic properties – a strong, balsamic scent that opens the airways.
• Solubility: soluble in oils, alcohol and propanediol; insoluble in water.
• Addition: incorporated in the cooling phase, as it is volatile and sensitive to high temperatures.

Use in cosmetics

• Ointments and balms for muscles and joints: 2–5 % (therapeutically up to 11 %)
• Warming creams for athletes: 1–4 %
• Cold balms: 0,5–3 %
• Baths: 0,1–0,5 %

⚠️ Warnings

• Not suitable for children under 6 years of age, pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers.Do not apply to eyes, mucous membranes or damaged skin.
• At higher concentrations it may cause a strong sensation of warmth or irritation.
• Use only on smaller areas and for a short period of time.
• A patch test on a small area of skin is recommended before use.

Two natural uses of camphor (DIY recipe):

1. Natural room freshener with natural camphor
You will need:

• 1 teaspoon (approximately 2–3 g) of crushed natural camphor
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of alcohol (ethanol 70 %)
• 10 drops of essential oil (e.g. lemon, eucalyptus, lavender) – optional
• 100 ml of distilled water
• A small spray bottle

Method:

1. Dissolve the camphor in alcohol in a small container. Stir until completely dissolved.
2. Add the essential oils (if using).
3. Pour in the water and mix well.
4. Transfer to the spray bottle.

Use:

• Spray around the room, on curtains and carpets.
• Do not spray directly on skin, animals or food.
• Shake gently before each use.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use in rooms where there are babies, small children or pets (especially cats)!!!!. Excessive inhalation may cause headache or respiratory irritation.

2. Anti-moth sachets for wardrobes
You will need:

• 1–2 teaspoons (2–5 g) of crushed natural camphor
• Small cotton bags or gauze
• Optional: 1 teaspoon of dried lavender, cedar or bay leaf (for a more pleasant scent)

Method:

1. Mix the camphor with the dried herbs if you want a milder scent.
2. Fill the mixture into a cotton bag or wrap in gauze and tie with a string.
3. Place or hang in a wardrobe, drawer or clothes box.

Effect:

• Repels moths, silverfish and other insects.
• Freshens wardrobes without synthetic insecticides.
• Replace the sachets every 1–2 months, or sooner if they lose their scent.

⚠️ Warning: Do not place directly on garments made from delicate materials (silk, wool), as camphor may leave stains or alter the scent. Keep out of reach of children and pets!!!!!