Cinnamomum camphora
Asian camphor source
Cinnamomum camphora is the camphor tree, a large evergreen native to East Asia.
The tree yields camphor, a waxy substance with a penetrating medicinal smell, extracted from its wood and leaves.
Camphor has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, as an insect repellent, and in religious ceremonies.
The tree is also planted ornamentally in warm climates, where it can become invasive.
- antisepticMicrobe-killing substance
- incenseAnger greatly, or aromatic resin
- essential oilConcentrated aromatic plant extract
- distillationPurification via vaporization
- evergreenRetains foliage year-round
terpenes · invasive species · spice trade · celluloid · folklore · Formosa · religious rituals · mothballs · analgesic · ceremonial use · trade routes · foliage · fragrant · anti-inflammatory · pungent · menthol · biodiversity loss · leaves
- camphor