Karpura

Description

The Cinnamomum camphora, or camphor tree, is a tall, evergreen tree with glossy, dark green leaves that release a characteristic camphor scent when crushed. Its bark is yellow to brown with vertical fissures, and its branches are smooth. The tree produces small, yellowish-white flowers in clusters that mature into small, round, black berries.

Useful Parts

Latex

Benefits

Respiratory System Expectorant → Helps clear mucus from the airways. Anti-asthmatic / Bronchodilator → Relieves bronchospasm and improves airflow. Decongestant → Reduces nasal and chest congestion. Musculoskeletal System Analgesic / Rubefacient → Relieves muscle and joint pain when applied topically. Anti-inflammatory → Reduces swelling and tissue inflammation. Digestive System Carminative → Reduces gas and bloating. Digestive stimulant → Enhances appetite and supports digestion. Immune System Immunomodulatory → Supports immune function by regulating lymphocyte activity. Nervous System Mild sedative / Nervine → Calms nervous system and reduces anxiety. Topical cooling effect → Provides relief from headaches and neuralgic pain. General / Multi-systemic Antimicrobial → Inhibits bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. Antioxidant → Neutralizes free radicals and prevents oxidative damage. Anti-pyretic → Helps reduce fever.

Pharmacological Action

1. Analgesic & Anti-inflammatory – Relieves pain and reduces inflammation (used in balms, oils, liniments). 2. Antimicrobial – Shows antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activity. 3. Antitussive & Expectorant – Helps in relieving cough, cold, and chest congestion. 4. Antispasmodic – Relaxes smooth muscles, useful in abdominal cramps and spasms. 5. CNS stimulant (in small doses) – Mildly stimulates brain activity, relieves fatigue, and increases alertness. 6. CNS depressant (in large doses) – Sedative and anticonvulsant effect; overdose may cause CNS depression. 7. Cardiovascular stimulant – Enhances blood circulation and improves cardiac activity. 8. Insecticidal & Repellent – Repels insects, mites, and mosquitoes. 9. Rubefacient & Counter-irritant – Causes local vasodilation and warmth when applied externally, reducing deeper pain. 10. Antipruritic – Reduces itching and skin irritation.

Rasapancakam

Rasa: Tikta, Katu, Madhura

Guna: Laghu, Tikshna

Virya: Sita

Vipaka: Katu

Dosha Karma: Pitta shamaka