Camphor

Camphor is a transparent, waxlike, crystalline substance extracted from the leaves and wood of the camphor tree (cinnamomum camphora). It has a very distinct pungent fresh smell, which slightly resembles that of menthol or eucalyptus, yet with its own unique characteristics. A smell hard to describe, yet which immediately comes to mind when you think about certain medicinal ointments such as vapor-rubs, chest-balms and Tiger-balm.

Camphor's main dynamic could be described as a purifying one. And it does so on many different levels. Most of us will immediately recognize how its smell in for example those vapor-rubs helps to decongest and clear your respiratory tract. A similar dynamic can also be ascribed to camphor on an energetic and spiritual level; it powerfully cleanses and purifies the energy fields of people, rooms or locations. 

This camphor comes to us from Kathmandu, where it has been carefully selected on its high quality. In Nepal the camphor tree is considered sacred and its aroma is said to highly please Lord Shiva. Camphor is burned in many hindu practices, such as the daily puja rituals. A lighted piece of camphor will burn completely, without leaving any ash, thus symbolizing the complete surrender to the divine. Also by many traditional Nepalese shamans camphor is used, for its abilities to thoroughly purify energyfields. It is for example used in death rituals and on funeral pyres to clear the spirits of the deceased.

Unlike incenses, camphor is used by lighting the substance directly instead of smoldering it on charcoal. It will burn with a very bright and clear flame and burn completely. Please take care to use a good fireproof bowl to burn it in.

This high quality camphor comes from Kathmandu and has been packed by us in waxed paper bags with a content of approximately 50 grams.

Please note; this camphor is for external use only. Do not ingest it, and avoid using it around more vulnerable people such as small children or pregnant women.