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Uses for Camphor Water

Camphor is a ketone (organic compound) obtained from the camphor tree, which grows in Japan and China. It is commonly diluted in water and used as a home remedy for various conditions. While there is no study as of 2010 proving these benefits, camphor water is used as a common alternative treatment for everything from itchy skin to chronic cough.

  1. Reduce Itching

    • According to Mayo Clinic, camphor water that is 3 to 11 percent diluted can be a remedy for neurodermatitis and other forms of severe itching. For this use, apply camphor water to the affected area two or three times daily.

    Rubefacient

    • Camphor water is also a rubefacient (a salve), according to HenriettaHerbal.com, and acts as a counter-irritant by dilating skin vessels.

    Soothing Eyes

    • Camphor water, when combined with 10 grams of boric acid and 1/2 oz of water, can reduce inflammation of the eyes, according to "Old Time Remedies."

    Soothing Cough

    • Camphor water can be rubbed on the chest to relieve a chronic cough, according to Mayo Clinic.

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