Definition. - The dextrogyrate modification of the saturated ketone, C9H16CO, obtained from Cinnamomum camphora (L.) Nees et Ebermaier, and purified by sublimation.

The camphor laurel is a handsome tree 25 to 30 feet (7.5-9 M.) high, indigenous in Eastern and Southeastern Asia, and cultivated in Italy as an ornamental tree.

Description and Properties. - White, translucent masses, of a tough consistence and crystalline structure, readily pulverizable in the presence of a little alcohol, ether, or chloroform; having a penetrating, characteristic odor and a pungently aromatic taste. Very sparingly soluble in water, but readily soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform, carbon disulphide, benzin, and in fixed and volatile oils.

When camphor is triturated in about molecular proportions with menthol, thymol, phenol, or chloral hydrate, liquefaction ensues. It melts at 175o C. (347o F.), boils at 204o C. (399.2o F.), and is inflammable, burning with a luminous, smoky flame. On exposure to the air it evaporates more or less rapidly at ordinary temperatures, and when moderately heated it sublimes without leaving a residue.

From camphor may be obtained a number of interesting compounds, such as camphoric acid, cymol, etc. The drug should be kept in well-closed vessels, in a cool place.

Dose. - 2-10 grains (0.12-0.6 Gm.).

Official Preparations

Aqua Camphorae - Aquae Camphorae - Camphor Water (0.8 per cent). -Dose, 1/2-2. fluidounces (15.0-30.0 Cc.) [2 fluidrams (8 Cc.) U. S. P.].

Linimentum Camphorae - Linimenti Camphorae - Camphor Liniment. -Camphor, 20; cottonseed oil, 80 parts. For external use.

Linimentum Saponis - Linimenti Saponis - Soap Liniment (4-5 per cent.). -For external use.

Spiritus Camphorae - Spiritus Camphorae - Spirit of Camphor (10 per cent.). - Dose, 5-40 minims (0.3-2.9 Cc.) [15 minims (1 Cc), U. S. P.].

Tinctura Opii Camphorata - Tincturae Opii Camphoratae - Camphorated

Tincture of Opium (0.4 per cent.). - Dose, 1-4 fluidrams (4-15 Cc.) [2 fluidrams (8 Cc), U. S. P.].