Pronunciation: [kˈamfə] (IPA) 
The word camphor is pronounced as /ˈkæmfər/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is stressed, and the "a" is pronounced as in "cat". The "ph" in the second syllable is pronounced as an "f", while the "o" is pronounced as in "better". The final "r" is silent. Camphor is a white, crystalline substance with a strong odor that comes from the wood of the camphor tree. It is used in various medicinal and industrial applications.
Camphor is an organic compound that is derived from the wood of the camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) or is synthesized from turpentine oil. It is a white, crystalline substance with a strong and distinctive aromatic odor.
In terms of its physical properties, camphor has a melting point of around 175°C (347°F) and is highly volatile, evaporating readily at room temperature. It is insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol, ether, and other organic solvents.
Camphor has been used for a wide range of purposes throughout history. It is well-known for its medicinal properties and has been utilized in various traditional and alternative medicine practices. It has been used as a topical analgesic to relieve itching, pain, and inflammation. Additionally, it has been used as a decongestant and expectorant in respiratory conditions, as well as an antiseptic and antifungal agent.
Apart from its medicinal uses, camphor has diverse applications. It has been utilized as a flavoring agent in certain food and drink products. It has also been used in the manufacturing of soaps, cosmetics, and perfumes due to its pleasant scent. Additionally, it has been employed in the preservation of wood and in the production of plastics and celluloid.
However, camphor is a hazardous substance if ingested or applied excessively, as it can have toxic effects on the central nervous system. Due to its potential health risks, camphor usage should be regulated and limited to recommended concentrations.
1. A solid, tough, crystalline, translucent substance, a ketone distilled from the bark and wood of Cinnamomum camphora, an evergreen tree of Southeastern Asia and the adjoining islands; see camphora. 2. Any stearoptene resembling this.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A whitish substance of an aromatic bitter taste and fragrant smell, much used in medicine.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "camphor" comes from the Middle English "camfere", which is derived from the Old French "camphre" and the Medieval Latin "camfora". These ultimately trace back to the Arabic word "kāfūr", which refers to the same substance. The Arabic term is believed to have originated from the Malayalam word "karpūram", which means "camphor" or "kapuram". Interestingly, the Malayalam word might have been borrowed from the Sanskrit term "karpūra" as the Sanskrit language has had a significant influence on the formation of Malayalam.
