Camphor

CAS: 76-22-2

Overview

Camphor (CAS 76-22-2 ), also known as laurel camphor, is a bicyclic ketone derived from the wood of Cinnamomum camphora or produced synthetically. It functions as a flavoring agent, fragrance fixative, and active ingredient across pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food applications.

In topical pharmaceutical formulations, camphor acts as a counterirritant and penetration modifier in creams, liniments, and medicated patches targeting muscle and joint discomfort. Fragrance compounders use it as a fixative and character note in perfumes and incense.

It is frequently utilized in scented personal care products where a clean, medicinal profile is required. Oral care manufacturers incorporate it into toothpastes and mouthwashes for its cooling sensation and flavoring contribution.

At regulated concentrations, it is also approved as a flavoring agent in food products, where it delivers a characteristic herbal, minty note. Camphor is supplied as white crystalline powder, pressed blocks, or sublimed flakes depending on requirements.

Standard grades include USP , BP , and Ph. Eur. for pharmaceutical applications, as well as technical grade for industrial fragrance and manufacturing use. These quality standards ensure consistency across global supply chains.

Natural (d-camphor) and synthetic (racemic) variants are both commercially available for various industrial needs. Natural-origin material often commands preference in premium fragrance and clean-label formulations due to its botanical source.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	179 °C
Boiling Point	204 °C
Density	0.992 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C
Flash Point	148 °F
Appearance	Camphor is a colorless glassy solid. Penetrating, characteristic odor.
Color	White or Colorless
Odor	at 10.00 % in dipropylene glycol. camphoreous
Form	neat
Water Solubility	0.12 g/100 mL (25 ºC)
Vapor Pressure	4 mm Hg ( 70 °C)
Refractive Index	1.5462 (estimate)
Log P	2.38

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS02 GHS07 GHS08 GHS05 GHS06 GHS09 Hazard Statements H228 Flammable solid H302 Harmful if swallowed H312 Harmful in contact with skin H315 Causes skin irritation H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction H318 Causes serious eye damage H319 Causes serious eye irritation H320 Causes eye irritation H330 Fatal if inhaled H332 Harmful if inhaled H335 May cause respiratory irritation H360 May damage fertility or the unborn child H370 Causes damage to organs H371 May cause damage to organs H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H373 May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H401 Toxic to aquatic life H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking. P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment. P241 Use explosion-proof [electrical/ventilating/lighting/…] equipment. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P272 Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P284 In case of inadequate ventilation wear respiratory protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P320 Specific treatment is urgent (see … on this label). P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P391 Collect spillage. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P308+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P333+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P370+P378 Use … for extinction. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	29142910
UN Number	2717
ADR Class	4.1
Packing Group	III
Storage Class	4.1B - Flammable solid hazardous materials
WGK (Germany)	1

Other Names

Industries

Food & Nutrition Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare Personal Care & Cosmetics