What is camphor?

Camphor originates from the camphor tree in powder form but is more often seen in synthetic forms. People use the ingredient in skin-applied products to soothe skin irritation, congestion, or coughs (think Icy Hot or Tiger Balm!). It is also an FDA-approved skin treatment for bug bite pains, cold sores, mild burns, and itches. Although there are four different types of camphor (white, brown and yellow, and blue), the pale, sometimes clear, white form is the only type that should be used in application. The others are highly toxic!

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Want a hot take? Although camphor is a popular ingredient used in lip balm, it often defeats its purpose by drying your lips more than they already were after its initial, deceptive cooling sensation. 

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Is camphor “good”?

While camphor is FDA-approved, it has pretty dangerous side effects when used incorrectly or in large amounts (more than 11%, which is pretty tough to come by in the first place). There have been numerous health reports on the side effects of camphor, namely for young children. NYC’s health department has warned against it, citing seizures, difficulty breathing, and even death when taken orally. It is also proven to have detrimental effects in terms of reproductive health and fertility, inhibiting sperm mobility and viability. 

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In terms of its environmental footprint, camphor residue from soil is proven to be non-toxic to plant and animal species, while occasionally being used in pesticides. Synthetic camphor, when surpassing a certain amount, has proven to be lethal to certain animals like mice. 

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What kind of products are made with camphor?

Camphor is used in balms, vapor rubs, liniments, and more, to soothe irritation on the skin, relieve pain, or ease congestion and inflammatory conditions. One of the most popular products that use camphor is Carmex. 

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Are there certifications I should look out for?

While there are no specific certifications to look out for, be sure to check the percentage amount of camphor on product labels with this ingredient. It is also important to stay away from ingesting camphor and to use it only for its designated purpose!

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Still want to learn more? Check out some of our favorite references:

WebMD: Camphor

Medical News: Camphor

Healthline: Camphor

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