Evidence supporting the use of: Japanese camphor
For the health condition: Bites and Stings

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

Japanese camphor (derived from Cinnamomum camphora) has a longstanding history of use in traditional medicine, including applications for relieving discomfort from insect bites and stings. Traditionally, camphor has been applied topically in the form of ointments or balms to soothe itching, reduce minor pain, and provide a cooling sensation, which can distract from the irritation of bites and stings. This use is mainly documented in traditional East Asian and Indian medical systems, as well as in Western folk practices.

From a scientific standpoint, camphor is recognized for its counterirritant properties, which means that when applied to the skin, it produces a cooling effect that can temporarily mask deeper sensations of pain and itching. However, while this mechanism is understood and supported by basic pharmacological knowledge, there is a lack of robust clinical trials specifically evaluating camphor’s efficacy for insect bites or stings. Most evidence remains anecdotal or rooted in historical practice rather than modern, high-quality scientific studies. Therefore, while its use is justified by tradition and there is some pharmacological rationale, direct scientific validation for this specific indication is limited.

In summary, Japanese camphor’s use for bites and stings is based primarily on tradition, with modest support from its known topical effects rather than strong modern scientific evidence.

More about Japanese camphor
More about Bites and Stings

Products containing Japanese camphor

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.