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Camphor (Karpura)

Karpura

Cinnamomum camphora

⚠ This preparation requires the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic physician and is restricted or banned in several countries. Presented for educational purposes only.

A light, penetrating, paradoxically cooling aromatic used mainly externally and in tiny internal doses. Employed for congestion, pain and as a cardiac and respiratory stimulant in classical practice.

neutral for Vatareduces Pittareduces Kapha

Ayurvedic properties

  • Rasa (taste): bitter, pungent, sweet
  • Virya (energy): cooling
  • Vipaka (post-digestive): pungent
  • Guna (qualities): light, sharp

Traditionally used for

  • nasal and chest congestion
  • muscular pain (external)
  • itching (external)
  • fainting

Contraindications & cautions

  • pregnancy
  • epilepsy
  • internal use except in minute purified doses

Possible interactions

  • CNS-active drugs
  • may irritate broken skin

Evidence notes

Widely used topically; camphor is toxic in excess and overdose causes seizures, so internal use is restricted to minute purified quantities.

Regulatory notes

Only edible/purified (pacha) karpura is used internally and only in trace doses; synthetic camphor is not for ingestion.

Classical sources

Source: Bhavaprakasha Nighantu; API. pending provider validation

Educational information about Ayurveda — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified professional before starting any herb, supplement, or therapy.