Pharmacology and toxicology
A small amount of camphor applied to the skin has a cooling and local anesthetic effect. Rubbing it in vigorously enhances the circulation to the skin. Because of these effects, camphor and other essential oils arc included in a large number of hyperemia-causing dcrmatological products.
Menthol is used topically for itching. No teratogenic action has, as yet, been observed in either animal or human studies for topical application.
Recommendation. Camphor and other essential oils may be used topi cally during pregnancy.
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Aromatherapy, a word often associated with calm, sweet smelling and relaxing surroundings. Made famous for its mostly relaxing indulgent feature, using aromatherapy has also been known to be related to have medicinal qualities.