is camphor good for health - #37238
I am feeling really confused about something and need some advice. Lately, I've been dealing with this persistent cold, you know, the stuffy nose and that annoying cough that just won't quit, and I heard people say that camphor is good for health. My grandmother used to swear by it whenever she caught a cold. She would put it in a bowl of hot water and maybe breathe in the steam. But, I’m kinda worried because I've read mixed stuff about camphor too, like how it might not be safe in big doses or if used incorrectly. Recently, I also tried applying it on my chest, thinking it would help, but then I got this weird burning sensation which made me doubt — is camphor good for health or do I just need to stop using it? I even checked some online forums and people were recommending it for various things like muscle pain and even as a mosquito repellent. I just really want to understand if there’s a safe way to use it, or if I should stick to old-school remedies like honey and lemon. Also, does camphor have any negative side effects that I should be aware of? Thanks for any insights!
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Doctors’ responses
Camphor, as you’ve encountered, has long been a part of traditional uses for treating common cold symptoms, among other things. Your grandmother’s method of using camphor in steam inhalation can actually be beneficial for stuffy noses. The steam can open nasal passages —helping relieve congestion. It’s typically safe when it’s used in moderation, you just need to make sure the room is well-ventilated, and avoid direct inhalation by keeping your face a bit far from the steam source.
Now, applying camphor topically like you did on the chest can cause irritation if not diluted properly. Camphor is quite potent and should be used sparingly because high concentrations might irritate the skin causing the burning sensation you felt. If you’re considering topical application, it’s better to mix a small amount with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil before using it on the skin.
About dosage — camphor is safe in small external amounts, but it can be toxic if ingested or if large amounts are applied to the skin. It’s crucial to keep camphor away from open cuts and it shouldn’t be applied on the skin of children or pregnant women.
Regarding side effects, besides skin irritation, camphor’s volatile nature can cause dizziness or headaches if the concentration in the air becomes too intense. Always ensure adequate ventilation. And it’s definitely not something to experiment with internally, stick to its external uses only.
If you’re looking for alternatives or supplements to steam inhalation, honey and lemon are indeed milder and serve as great remedie for soothing sore throats. With camphor or any herbal remedy, balance is key. Always start with small amounts and observe how your body responds.

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