Side Effects of Camphor and Baby Oil

Camphor essential oil is derived from the Cinnamomum camphora plant, and there are four grades or versions of this oil.

The four grades are;

– White camphor oil

-Brown camphor oil

– Yellow camphor oil

– Blue camphor oil

The white camphor oil is the most widely used and recognized for its aromatic and medicinal purposes.

The other camphor, Blue, brown, and yellow camphor, are not as famous due to their high amounts of safrole content, which can be highly toxic.

Source: ScientificDoctor

Benefits or uses of Camphor oil.

Camphor oil has the following benefits;

1. It is anti-inflammatory.
2. It is antiseptic.
3. Anti-oxidant.
4. Soothing.
5. Detoxifying.
6. Anti-fungal.
7. Analgesic.
8. Stimulates the nerves.
9. Helps with symptoms such as itching and pain.
10. It is used in aromatherapy because of its incredible, clean scent, which is similar to the effects of menthol.
11. It is used in vapour rubs to relieve congested respiratory systems.
12. It helps to relax nervous or anxious minds.
13. Soothes redness, inflammation and insect bites on the skin.
14. Soothes acne, rashes, sprains, sores and muscular aches such as arthritis.
15. It has astringent properties, which make the skin look firmer, cleaner and smoother.
16. It is used in hair care to reduce hair loss and disinfect the scalp.
17. It boosts blood circulation and digestion.

Topical use

When used topically, camphor oil is usually mixed or diluted with a carrier oil.

This is because undiluted camphor oil or camphor oils in concentrations higher than 11 per cent can be irritating.

You can mix camphor oil with baby oil, Eucalyptus oil, Lavender, Sweet basil, Chamomile, and Rosemary oil.

Side Effects of Camphor and Baby Oil

1. Camphor oil should not be ingested as it can be toxic when consumed.
2. Pregnant and nursing women should not use camphor oil without seeking advice from a medical practitioner.
3. Patients with asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, cancer, and skin disorders should seek advice from a medical practitioner before including camphor oil in their regimen.
4. Camphor oil must never be used near the eyes, inner nose, or ears. Doing so may cause convulsions, vomiting, nausea, sleeplessness, and liver damage.

Note:

To be on the safe side, it’s best to do a patch test on your skin before applying it topically over a large surface area.

• Choose an area of your skin that isn’t too sensitive and apply a dime size of diluted camphor oil (diluted with a carrier oil like baby oil, for example) to the area.
• Watch the area for reactions to determine your body’s sensitivity to the oil.

Disclaimer:

A medical professional did not write this article; if you’d like more information on the side effects of camphor and baby oil, please visit your primary healthcare provider.