Flavors & Fragrances
REACH
Camphor
CAS Number
76-22-2
EC Number
200-945-0
FEMA Number
FEMA 4513
What is Camphor?
Camphor (CAS 76-22-2), also known as laurel camphor, is a bicyclic ketone derived from the wood of Cinnamomum camphora or produced synthetically.
Where is Camphor used?
- Pharmaceutical: counterirritant and penetration modifier in creams, liniments, and medicated patches targeting muscle and joint discomfort
- Cosmetic: fixative and character note in perfumes and incense
- Personal care: scented products with a clean, medicinal profile
- Oral care: toothpastes and mouthwashes for cooling sensation and flavoring
- Food: approved flavoring agent at regulated concentrations, delivering a herbal, minty note
- It functions as a flavoring agent, fragrance fixative, and active ingredient.
Good to know: Natural (d-camphor) and synthetic (racemic) variants are both commercially available. Natural-origin material often commands preference in premium fragrance and clean-label formulations due to its botanical source.
Commercial specifications
- USP, BP, and Ph. Eur. grades for pharmaceutical applications
Other Names (Synonyms)
spirit of camphor|root bark oil|laurel camphor|Japan camphor|gum camphor|Formosa camphor|bornan-2-one|2-keto-1,7,7-trimethylnorcamphane
What are the physical properties of Camphor?
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
How is Camphor classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS02· Flammable GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard GHS05· Corrosive GHS06· Toxic GHS09· Environmental Hazard
Hazard Statements
H228 Flammable solid
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H312 Harmful in contact with skin
H315 Causes skin irritation
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.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Camphor?
HS Code 29142910
UN Number 2717
ADR Class 4.1
Packing Group III
Storage Class 4.1B - Flammable solid hazardous materials
WGK (Germany) 1