Single Herb Glossary
Zhāng Nǎo 樟腦
| Pharmaceutical name | Camphora Camphor "camphor brain" |
| Category | Substances for Topical Applications |
| Key Properties | Expels Wind & Turbidity Stops Pain Expels Blood Stagnation |
| Properties | Acrid Hot Toxic |
| Tropism | HT, SP |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Expels Wind & Dampness & Kills Parasites 2) Opens Orifices & Expels Turbidity 3) Invigorates Blood & Alleviates Pain |
| Dosages | 0.1-0.2g (Topically< 3% CI: children) |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Pregnancy, in infants, & Qi or Yin deficiency or excess Heat Use with extreme caution when given internally |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | d-camphora |
| Pharmacological Effects | • CNS stimulant: subcutaneous injection has marked stimulating effect on CNS and respiratory system • Cardiovascular: has mixed effect on cardiac muscle; in a healthy person, normal dosage of herb exerts little or no effect while a large dosage has an inhibitory effect on the heart; in persons with heart failure, has stimulating effect • Gastrointestinal: small dosage has mild stimulatory effect on stomach while large dosage may cause nausea and vomiting |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.