Is Camphor Carcinogenic?

CAMPHOR has been used for centuries in a range of medical, industrial and cultural practices, particularly in traditional medicine.

The white crystalline substance is found in over-the-counter products for pain relief, cough suppression and skin treatments. It’s also the main ingredient in the majority of the locally produced “minyak angin”.

However, some have raised concerns that camphor causes cancer. Is camphor carcinogenic?

Verdict:

FALSE

Camphor itself is not carcinogenic and is considered safe when used appropriately in approved medicinal applications.

What is Camphor?

Camphor is a white or obvious waxy substance found in the wood of the camphor laurel and other trees found in Asia and Borneo.

It is indeed also produced synthetically from the oil of turpentine.

It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including as an antiseptic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory agent. Historically, it was also used in moth repellents, celluloid production, and as a flavoring agent.

Why the Concern About Cancer?

The concern about camphor and cancer likely stems from studies involving extremely high doses of camphor administered too laboratory animals. These doses were far beyond what humans would typically be exposed to through medicinal or topical applications.

Specifically, some older studies on rats showed that very high doses of camphor could lead to liver tumors. Though, these findings are not directly applicable to human exposure levels.

What Do Regulatory Bodies Say?

Major health organizations and regulatory bodies generally consider camphor safe for use in approved medicinal products when used as directed.

• U.S. Food and drug Governance (FDA): The FDA regulates the use of camphor in over-the-counter drug products and sets limits on the amount that can be used.
• European Medicines Agency (EMA): The EMA also assesses the safety of camphor and approves its use in certain medicinal products.
• World Health Institution (WHO): The WHO recognizes camphor as a safe and effective ingredient in traditional medicine when used appropriately.

Potential Risks and Safe Usage

While not carcinogenic, camphor can pose risks if misused. these risks are generally related to ingestion or excessive topical request:

• Ingestion: Swallowing camphor can be toxic, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, seizures, and even death. Camphor-containing products should be kept out of reach of children.
• Topical Application: Applying too much camphor to the skin can cause irritation, redness, and blistering.
• Drug Interactions: Camphor may interact with certain medications. Consult a healthcare professional if you are taking other drugs.

Key Takeaways

• Camphor is not carcinogenic to humans when used appropriately.
• Concerns about cancer originated from studies using extremely high doses in animals.
• Regulatory bodies like the FDA and EMA consider camphor safe for use in approved medicinal products.
• Misuse of camphor, particularly ingestion, can be harmful.

Publication Date: 2025/11/07 10:50:23