CAMPHORA

Homeopathy

CAMPHORA

Cinnamomum camphora syn. Laurus camphora
Camphor.

Key Uses:

Cholera

Colds with chills and sneezing

Light-sensitive rashes

Origin : Native to Indochina and Japan, but now found in tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world.

Background : Commonly used as a moth repellent, camphor is also a strong narcotic, and was praised by the famous 16th-century scientist Paracelsus for its “cooling” effect on brain disorders. It is THEOBROMA CACAO (Coco pod and seeds)136 considered by some to be a universal antidote for homeopathic remedies.

Preparation : The gum of the tree is dissolved in alcohol, diluted, and succussed.

Remedy Profile : Contradictory symptoms, contrariness, and emotional and physical coldness are typical in those who respond best to Camphora. They crave sympathy, but may be quarrelsome, aggressive, and depressed.
Camphora made its reputation as a treatment for cholera (see pages 16 and 65), but is now used primarily for the initial stages of a cold with chills and sneezing. There may be great heat and perspiration with a desire to remain covered up, or chilliness with a desire to be uncovered. Other possible accompanying symptoms include insomnia and restless sleep or, conversely, deep, comatose sleep.

Symptoms Better : For thinking about symptoms, especially pain; for sweating.

Symptoms Worse : For cold; for drafts; for suppressing discharges.