Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu), Sweet (Madhura)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- C₁₀H₁₆O — Camphor is a terpenoid ketone. Bhimseni camphor contains d-borneol. Camphor oil of Borneo type produced. Chemical formula same for all types but optical rotation differs.
- Also Known As
- English: Camphor, Borneo Camphor, Baros Camphor
Sanskrit: कर्पूर, घनसार, चन्द्र, हिमवालुक, सितांशु, हिमांशु
Hindi: कपूर, कर्पूर
What is Camphor (Karpura / कर्पूर)?
Karpura (Camphor) is the first substance described in the Karpuradi Varga, the second chapter of Bhavaprakash Nighantu. Four types are described: (1) Bhimseni — the best, from Dryobalanops camphora trees in Borneo/Sumatra, naturally deposited in wood crevices; (2) Chini — from Cinnamomum camphora, obtained by distillation; (3) Pachi/Bapani — from Blumea species; (4) Synthetic — chemically prepared. Bhimseni is preferred for medicinal use. Camphor is cold in potency, aromatic, and used extensively in heart diseases, burning sensations, fevers, and eye conditions. It is a cardiac stimulant in small doses. Excessive use can reduce sexual potency. Applied externally for skin conditions and pain relief. Book reference: Karpuradi Varga, shloka 1-3.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Hridya (cardiotonic)
- Daha Prashamana (relieves burning sensation)
- Vrishya (aphrodisiac in small doses)
- Sugandhi (aromatic/fragrant)
- Krimighna (anti-parasitic)
- Chedana (expectorant)
- Chakshushya (beneficial for eyes)
- Lekhana (scraping/reduces fat)
- Kapha-Vata Shamaka (pacifies Kapha and Vata)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Classical Therapeutic Uses
- Daha (burning sensation)
- Trishna (excessive thirst)
- Jwara (fever)
- Mukha Roga (oral diseases)
- Hridroga (heart diseases)
- Kasa (cough)
- Shwasa (asthma/dyspnea)
- Netra Roga (eye diseases)
- Krimi (worms/parasites)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Varieties
| Variety | Region | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Bhimseni Karpura (भीमसेनी कर्पूर) | ||
| Chini Karpura (चीनी कर्पूर) | ||
| Pachi/Bapani Karpura (पची/बापनी कर्पूर) | ||
| Synthetic Karpura (कृत्रिम कर्पूर) |
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Camphor by Condition
Explore how Camphor is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.