Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora)
The evergreen Camphor Tree, also known as Alcanfor, Camphor Laurel and Shiu Leaf, originates from Eastern Asia and became popularized ornamentally through the late 1800’s. You can currently find Camphor products in almost any holistic remedy isles. Ranging in uses from cough suppressants and nasal decongestants to topical applications for inflammation relief, the Camphor Tree boasts a long list of medicinal properties.
A member of the Lauraceae family alongside Bay Leaf and Cinnamon, the Camphor tree stands out for its incredible adaptability and fast-growing tenacity. Birds enjoy the Camphor Tree’s small blue-to-black drupe fruits and often spread their seeds, adding to the tree’s quick spreading tendencies. The main use of Camphor comes from its fragrant oil and timber.
When you crush a Camphor twig or leaf, its signature fragrance fills the air with a deep aroma. If the scaly bark is set aflame, the smoke is said to cleanse the air and has long been burned as a spiritual offering in India. The tree bears glossy, deep green leaves and fragrant, petite green-white flowers. Grow yourself a quick canopy and enjoy distilling its fragrance!
Common Names for Camphor include: Camphor Tree, Alcanfor, Camphor Laurel, Shiu Leaf, Gum Camphor, Karpoora Aarathi, Kapur Barus, Formosa Camphor, Japanese Camphor, True Camphor