Saturday 14 February 2009

Surprising Health Benefits of Camphor

Camphor, kapurCamphor (Kapur) is a waxy, white or transparent solid possessing a strong and aromatic odor. It contains many properties that shapes a healthy body. It includes stimulant, anti-spasmodic, anti-septic, decongestant, anesthetic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, disinfectant and insecticide values. Early civilization used to burn this solid in small plates as a part of their daily prayer. It helped to purify the air and keep away the harmful bacteria and viruses from damaging your body.

Health Benefits of Camphor

Skin and hair problems- The use of this solid in skin care creams treats various ill conditions. It happens due to its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal nature. If you mix its oil in water and take bath with it then it kills lice from your head.
Decongestant and anesthetic- The strong aroma of camphor works as a decongestant. It opens the blocked congestion of bronchi, larynx, pharynx, nasal tracts and lungs. So, its widely used in balms and cold rubs.
Camphor also works as a local anesthetic as it numbs the sensory nerve and concerned area of application.
Aphrodisiac, Sedative and Narcotic- The consumption of its oil boosts libido by activating the areas of the brain that are responsible for generating sexual desires and libido. It treats any erectile problem by increasing the circulation of blood in the affected area.
Camphor works as a sedative agent as it relaxes the body and generates the feelings of peace and freshness. Mix its oil in water in summers to get a cooling effect.
The narcotic effect of this one helps in desensitizing and relaxing the brain. But do not take its overdose as it can make the limbs to lose control over themselves.
Anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis- The anti-spasmodic nature of this solid helps to subside spasms and cramps problems like spasmodic cholera. Its use also helps to treat any kind of internal and external inflammation distress. And its stimulant property increases blood circulation and treats rheumatism, arthritis and gout.
Carminative and Nervous pacifier- Its carminative effect prevents and removes the formation of gas. This one even calms various nervous diseases, convulsions, epileptic attacks and nervousness.
Stimulant- Camphor stimulates circulation, metabolism, digestion, secretion and excretion.
Other benefits- It can treat epilepsy, hysteria, viral diseases like whooping cough, measles, flu, food poisoning and infections of the reproductive organs.
Besides these health benefits, there are also some main uses of camphor. They are mentioned here:
- Add its oil to your bathing water to disinfect it.
- If you mix one or two drops of camphor oil in food grains then it keeps away the problem of insects.
*Talk to your doctor before starting the use of camphor for any medical purpose.