Camphor oil is extracted from the wood of camphor trees, known scientifically as Cinnamomum camphora, and it has a strong aroma.

Camphor oil has a variety of uses. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is often an ingredient in vapor rubs, liniments, and balms.

Many people use it to relieve irritation, itching, and pain. As an ingredient in different products, it can also help ease inflammatory conditions and chest congestion.

Skin issues: One study in mice found that Cinnamomum camphora leaves alleviated pathologic systems of atopic dermatitis, or eczema, and helped in treatment.

Only use camphor oil products with a concentration of 11% or less. Do not apply camphor products to broken or injured skin, due to the potential for toxicity. Always follow the instructions on packaging carefully.

Pain: Camphor oil is a common ingredient in pain relief medications, including topical analgesics. It may help treat muscle aches and pains, while stimulating circulation, by interacting with receptors on the sensory nerves. Camphor oil can also help reduce chronic muscle and joint pain over longer periods. One 2016 study, for example, showed that camphor oil helped relieve lower back pain.

With dual hot and cold action, camphor oil numbs and cools nerve endings, then warms the painful area as it increases circulation to stiff joints and muscles.

Headaches: Research into the use of camphor oil to ease headaches is ongoing. Essential oils may help treat headaches, including migraine headaches. Those that contribute to a calming atmosphere may also promote sleep. A 2019 study in mice investigated the effect of Cinnamomum camphora on migraine. It found that the essential oil could suppress pain-signaling pathways and weaken neurogenic inflammation.

If a person experiences persistent headaches or any migraine headaches, they should contact a healthcare provider for advice.

Coughs and congestion: Camphor oil is popular in aromatherapy, as it helps relieve respiratory congestion. It also has antitussive properties that can help ease coughs in children and adults. For these reasons, it is an ingredient in common chest rubs sold over the counter. A person might try applying these products to the chest or feet — in which case it is a good idea to put on socks afterward. Or, a person could dissolve the product in a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam.

Superficial burns: A study from 2015 investigated whether camphor oil and coconut oil could help in caring for superficial burns. The researchers analyzed data from 2,000 people over 14 years. The results indicated that a mixture of the oils significantly helped with burn care in a hospital setting.

According to the study authors, patients who received the treatment reported improved quality of life and less pain. They experienced no “undue” side effects of the oil combination and spent less time in the hospital than those who had not received the treatment.

Chronic diseases: A 2018 study in mice tested whether white camphor oil had antitumor activity. The results indicated that the essential oil could stimulate immune cell-dependent regression of skin tumors in the animal model.

In addition, authors of a 2013 review found that camphor could help treat or prevent “serious, life threatening diseases.” They called for further research into its potential role in the treatment of Alzheimer’s and similar illnesses.

Precautions: Do not use directly on the skin. Ιt is a good idea to test for a reaction by applying the product to a small area of skin first before using it more widely.