Aromatic substance obtained from the wood of a tree common to Southeast Asia, Cinnamomum camphora, or manufactured synthetically. When applied to the skin camphor produces a cooling effect and dilates blood vessels, which can cause skin irritation and dermatitis with repeated use (Sources:
British Journal of Dermatology, November 2000, pages 923–929; and
Clinical Toxicology, December 1981, pages 1485–1498).
See
counter-irritant
