Evidence supporting the use of: Camphor oil
For the health condition: Nausea and Vomiting

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Camphor oil has been used traditionally in various cultures, especially within Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, for a range of ailments, including digestive complaints such as nausea and vomiting. Its strong aroma and cooling effect have led to its historical use as an inhalant or topical agent intended to “settle the stomach” or provide a sense of relief from queasiness. In folk remedies, camphor was sometimes incorporated into balms or oils that were massaged onto the chest or abdomen, or used in aromatherapy to help with motion sickness and nausea. However, there is minimal scientific evidence supporting these uses; most contemporary medical literature focuses on camphor’s risks (notably toxicity if ingested or used improperly) rather than its efficacy. Clinical studies on camphor for nausea or vomiting are lacking, and its use is generally not recommended in modern evidence-based practice for these symptoms. Therefore, while camphor oil’s application for nausea and vomiting is rooted in tradition, it lacks strong scientific validation, and any use should be approached with caution due to potential toxicity, especially in children and pregnant women.

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