Camphor Oil

Category: Essential Oil

Brief Description: Camphor oil is extracted from the wood of the camphor tree, Cinnamomum camphora. Known for its strong, penetrating fragrance, it is often used in balms and liniments. Its price per ounce varies but is typically between $5 - $10.

Benefits: Camphor oil is used for its calming effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and is also believed to enhance circulation.

Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types. However, because it can be potent, it should be used in lower concentrations and avoided by those with sensitive skin.

Target audience: Often sought by individuals who appreciate natural therapeutic and aromatic products.

Chemical composition: The primary component is camphor, followed by eucalyptol, camphene, and pinene.

Physical aspect: Camphor oil is a clear to pale yellow liquid with a strong, camphoraceous aroma.

Compatibility: It blends well with basil, cajuput, chamomile, lavender, and melissa oils.

Concentration: Generally used at a concentration of less than 2% in cosmetic formulations.

Side effects/adverse reactions: It may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, and should not be used on broken skin or in high concentrations.

Regulatory status: Regulated by the FDA. Only white camphor oil, which contains no safrole, is considered safe for use.

Sustainability/ethical considerations: Sustainably sourced camphor oil is available from certified organic suppliers.

Variants: Variants include white and brown camphor oil, with white camphor oil being the safe and commonly used variant in cosmetics.