Learn Glossary flavoring

Camphor Oil

Level 4Significant concernsIn Winter's Dictionary

Camphor Oil is a flavoring — Spice flavoring; embalming fluid; lacquers; moth repellent; topical liniments

What it does

Spice flavoring; embalming fluid; lacquers; moth repellent; topical liniments

Where you'll see it

Beverages, baked goods, condiments; must be safrole-free

What the research says

Readily absorbed through all sites. Ingestion of 2 grams produces dangerous effects in adult. Ingestion by pregnant women has caused fetal deaths. Reports of poisonings through skin absorption and accidental ingestion.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: ASP
  • Notes: FDA banned camphorated oil as liniment for colds and sore muscles in 1980

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): Ingestion of 2 grams generally produces dangerous effects in an adult. Ingestion by pregnant women has caused fetal deaths