As soon as the festive season begins, many claims are made regarding old customs and traditions. Some are said to cure cancer, while others are associated with purity. One such belief is that burning camphor purifies the atmosphere of the house (does camphor purify the air). But what is its scientific basis?

Camphor is an essential ingredient used during puja in Indian homes. Camphor, available in small white balls, has a wonderful aroma. It catches fire very quickly. Therefore it is used during Havan and Aarti. These days, in some viral posts on social media, camphor is being said to purify the environment of the house (does camphor purify air). Does burning camphor really purify the atmosphere of the house? Is this a myth (Myths about kapoor aka camphor) or a fact? Let us know from an expert.

What is camphor, where is it found?

According to research published in PubMed Central in 2022, the camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) is an ornamental plant that has been cultivated for a long time to obtain wood or camphor. Apart from this, its oil found from the leaves can also be used. It is an important source of perfume. Camphor, which is derived from trees, has long been used in other medical systems to treat inflammation, infection, muscle pain, and skin irritations.

What are the traditional beliefs about camphor (Traditional uses of camphor aka kapoor)

Its aroma helps in awakening feelings of devotion and spirituality. According to Hindu belief, there are many benefits of burning camphor. Traditionally used to ward off negativity, purify the environment and create a peaceful atmosphere in the home. People believe that burning camphor while worshiping is a symbol of happiness, prosperity and success in the house. Besides, it is also considered beneficial in removing Vaastu defects.

Camphor can provide relief from pain. Image ShooterTalk.

these 5 domestic treatments Camphor aka kapoor home remedies is used in

A 2023 review of their research in PubMed Central states that camphor has historically been used topically in East Asia to reduce pain, cold symptoms, and itching. However, they have not been studied enough in Western medicine, making them less recognized. Pain, itching, and cold symptoms are common problems, and given the growing need for non-opioid treatment options, its role may be important. Further study on its effectiveness is necessary so that its benefits can be properly understood.

1. Reducing Inflammation:

Camphor has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce or prevent inflammation. It is used when there is swelling in the body due to any injury or infection.

2. Beneficial in cold and fever:

Camphor is beneficial for cough and cold because its aroma opens the nostrils, which provides relief in breathing.

3. Relief from muscle pain:

Camphor is used to reduce muscle pain and cramps because applying its oil increases blood flow and provides relief to the muscles.

4. skin beneficial to:

Camphor oil helps in reducing skin irritation and itching as it has antiseptic properties. When applied to the skin, it reduces irritation and itching.

5. Reduction in stress:

The fragrance of camphor can help in reducing mental stress and anxiety. It is also beneficial in improving sleep, which provides better rest.

Does burning camphor reduce indoor pollution (Does burning camphor or camphor purify indoor air?)

Dr. Nitin Rathi denies any benefit of camphor and says that we do not yet have any scientific basis that supports the removal of air pollution by burning camphor.

Dr. Rathi is a Senior Consultant in the Department of Pulmonology, Dharamshila Narayana Hospital, Delhi. He says, “Burning camphor produces a pleasant fragrance, but it does not purify the air. In fact, it can be dangerous for people with respiratory problems and asthma patients to be around its smoke.”

Camphor can trigger your asthma.
Image: Shutterstock

Burning camphor can increase respiratory problems.

To this, Dr. Nitin further adds that “Topical use of camphor is not harmful. But if seen from a scientific point of view, the smoke produced by burning camphor contains particulate matter i.e. such microscopic particles, which can pollute the air more. Chronic exposure to these particles can aggravate asthma and other respiratory problems. Especially for people who already have diseases, such as asthma or COPD, this smoke can be more harmful. Therefore, the claimed purification of air by burning camphor may have the opposite effect rather than improving the air quality.

while going

Therefore, keep in mind its advantages and disadvantages. Even though there are some beliefs about camphor that it does not cause pollution and the air remains pure, there is no concrete evidence for this. So, if you need to burn camphor, burn it for short periods of time and in places with proper ventilation and keep people with respiratory problems away from it.