Cinnamomum camphora

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Cinnamomum camphora

Cinnamomum camphora (pronunciation: sin-uh-MOH-muhm KAM-for-uh) is a species of evergreen tree that is commonly known as the camphor tree or camphor laurel.

Etymology

The name Cinnamomum camphora is derived from the tree's genus Cinnamomum, which is Latin for 'cinnamon', and its species name camphora, which is Latin for 'camphor'. The common name 'camphor tree' is a direct reference to the tree's most notable product, camphor.

Description

Cinnamomum camphora is native to China, Japan, and Taiwan. The tree is known for its aromatic foliage, which contains volatile oil glands. It is these glands that produce the camphor for which the tree is named. The tree can grow up to 20-30 meters tall and has a broad, dense canopy.

Uses

The wood and leaves of the Cinnamomum camphora tree are steam distilled to extract camphor oil, which is used in medicinal applications, aromatherapy, and as a moth repellent. The oil has a strong, penetrating, fragrant odor and a bitter, pungent taste.

Related Terms

  • Camphor oil: An oil extracted from the wood and leaves of the Cinnamomum camphora tree.
  • Cinnamomum: The genus of the Cinnamomum camphora tree, which includes other species such as Cinnamomum verum (true cinnamon) and Cinnamomum aromaticum (cassia).
  • Evergreen: A type of tree that retains its leaves throughout the year.
  • Aromatherapy: The use of aromatic plant extracts and essential oils for healing and cosmetic purposes.

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