5 Major Side Effects of Using Camphor on Health

Camphor is an ingredient that we almost use everyday in our prayers, hair care, skin care, remedies and also around our home. Camphor is not a completely safe ingredient, before using camphor should get to know its side effects especially before using it on a regular basis. This applies to applying camphor externally, consuming it internally and also inhaling the vapors when we burn camphor.

# Camphor Allergy

Camphor allergy especially when using synthetic camphor for skin care is very common. Camphor allergy can lead to development of rashes, redness and extreme dryness of the skin. Never use synthetic camphor for skin care and even if you are using edible camphor make sure to use it in the proper dosage.

# Toxic In Large Doses

Though edible camphor is consumed in very small quantities from ancient times in certain sweets, we should remember that it is extremely toxic above certain levels. Over dosage can lead to abdominal pain, nausea, headache, heart palpitations and in extreme cases seizures. It is best to immediately consult a physician if you have ingested camphor.

# Should Not Be Used On Open Wounds

Camphor enters into our bloodstream very very quickly so never use camphor on broken capillaries. The same applies when we use camphor essential oil mixed with a base oil for our scalp too. If we use it on the scalp with wounds, it can lead to camphor poisoning very easily. You can read the toxicity report here.

# Not For Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers

Both pregnant women and lactating mothers should avoid consuming camphor completely as it can induce abortion. In our village we use camphor oil for treating leg cramps in pregnant women that they normally face during the last trimester. But if there are open wounds, avoid external application of camphor completely. This is especially important for pregnant women as it can lead to toxicity in the unborn child.

# Can Cause Respiratory Problems

Like me, many of you would have experienced slight respiratory irritation when we inhale synthetic camphor fumes. Nowadays I have completely stopped burning synthetic camphor during prayers and I would suggest the same to you too if you are facing respiratory problems. Even if you are burning synthetic camphor, don’t burn more than a pellet at a time.