Evidence supporting the use of: Camphor
For the health condition: Headache (sinus)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Camphor has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Asia, for the relief of headache, including those associated with sinus congestion. In Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, camphor is commonly included in balms, ointments, or oils that are topically applied to the forehead, temples, or chest. The rationale is that camphor’s strong aroma and mild counterirritant effects can provide a sensation of cooling and may help relieve the discomfort of headaches, especially those arising from sinus congestion. Inhalation of camphor vapors is also a traditional practice thought to help clear nasal passages and provide symptomatic relief.

From a scientific standpoint, there is limited direct evidence supporting the efficacy of camphor specifically for sinus headaches. Its primary mechanism appears to be stimulation of nerve endings, producing a cooling sensation that may distract from headache pain (counterirritant effect). Camphor also has mild decongestant properties that might help with sinus-related symptoms, but robust clinical trials are lacking. The evidence rating of 2 reflects that, while traditional use is well-documented and there is some plausible mechanism, high-quality scientific studies directly investigating camphor for sinus headache are minimal or absent.

More about Camphor
More about Headache (sinus)

Products containing Camphor

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.