Camphor:
The camphor is a byproduct of tree
'Cinnamomum camphora'. Camphor is used in all religious activities in India.
Camphor is burned as ritual after worshiping the god. It has been used in
medicine and aromatherapy from ancient times. Camphor is made from bark or wood
of the tree through distilling process. In modern times it was extracting from
turpentine oil. Camphor is used in vapor rubs to cure cold and coughs.
Cultural Beliefs:
People believe burning camphor before the god signifies the act of union and termed as fire scarifies to god - burning ego and arrogance before the god like camphor without leaving any trace. The burning Ego with pure knowledge leads unification with god. This camphor light drives ghosts, evil forces and negative energies away. Some of the countries use camphor oil other than using camphor for burning.
Significance:
Camphor has many medicinal values. It
has a pungent taste and strong fragrant odor.
- In Ayurveda,
camphor is mixed with oil to apply for inflammatory conditions, treatments
like Arthritis, sprains, rheumatism and muscular pains
- Camphor
powder is used as cardiac stimulator.
- Camphor
oil is used for cough, cold, flu and fever.
- Camphor
is used internally in medicine for hysteria and diarrhea
- Camphor
is used to cure fungal infections of the toenails and warts, also used as
ear drops.
Important Facts:
- Camphor
should not be used in aromatherapy massage, as it is highly toxic.
- Camphor
can cause vomiting if used more.
- Patients
suffering from diseases like Epilepsy and pregnant women should avoid
camphor.
Scientific Reasons:
- Camphor
purifies the air in the atmosphere and attains various medicinal benefits
when we inhale. It acts as a germ killer, mosquito & fly repellent and
limits spreading of the virus in that place.
- It
releases a dark smoke with bright light.
- It
is used in aromatherapy to deal with major diseases like Measles,
Typhoid, Asthma and several digestive infections.
- A
moderate dosage of camphor will used in sweets and special dishes.
- People
believe due its strong odor it acts as a snake repellent and placed in
iron store for protecting iron against rust. Its acts cough suppressor.
- Camphor
absorbs through the skin and gives cooling effect.
- Edible
camphor is used in cooking for its aroma and healing properties.
- The ancients used Camphor with alcohol to cure cholera.
