Camphor (cinnamomum camphora)

Description
Reaching nearly 100ft, these are impressive and majestic trees with white flowers and red berries on their slightly serrated leaves. The Camphor tree often lives to about 1000 years and any commerical harvesting isn't done until a tree is at least 50 years old. Extraction of the oil does not require the destruction of the tree as the oil can be found in every part of the tree... helping to maintain ecosystems and wildlife balance.
Characteristics
A base note oil which is very fresh and clean... though can be very piercing.
Oils to Blend with
Basil, Cajuput, Chamomile, Lavender and Melissa

Latin Name
Cinnamomum camphora

Plant Family
Lauracea

Extraction Method
Oil is found in every part of the tree and is distilled via steam distillation

Country of Origin
Indonesia

Chemical Constituents
Camphor (Ketone), Safrole (Phenol), Borneol (Alcohol), Camphene (Terpene), Borneo: Borneol (Alcohol), Pinene, Camphene, Dipentene (Terpenes).

Precautions
A definate oil to avoid in pregnancy (along with our general advice to avoid all oils in pregnancy - this is one should be especially avoided). Those sffering from epilepsy and asthma should also avoid. Camphor is very stimulating and very useful, overdosing however can cause convulsions and vomiting.