Camphor (monoterpene) dosage

Camphor (CAS 76-22-2) is an aromatic monoterpene notably those from camphor ( Cinnamomum camphora ), rosemary or sage. Long used in traditional medicine, cosmetics and aromatherapy, it has stimulating, soothing, antiseptic and preservative .

Camphor dosage allows the content of this bioactive compound in various products to be controlled, ensuring their regulatory compliance and guaranteeing consistent quality of the formulations.

Understanding Camphor and Its Applications

Camphor is known for its characteristic odor and its multiple applications:

• Nutraceutical and herbal medicine : integrated into food supplements and herbal formulations for its tonic and digestive effects.
• Cosmetics and skin care : used in creams, balms and ointments for its cooling, soothing and antiseptic properties.
• Aromatherapy : present in essential oils for its stimulating and protective properties.
• Preservatives : Sometimes used as a natural antimicrobial agent in certain formulations.

Since its use is strictly regulated due to its potential neurotoxicity at high doses , precise dosage of camphor is essential.

Analytical methods for the determination of camphor

Camphor analysis is carried out by gas chromatography , a reference method for volatile compounds:

• GC-FID (gas chromatography with flame ionization detection) : suitable for the quantification of monoterpenes in essential oils or plant extracts.
• GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) : allows specific and reliable identification of camphor, even in the presence of complex matrices.

These methods guarantee high sensitivity , optimal selectivity and reproducibility adapted to industrial and regulatory requirements.

Sectors concerned by camphor analysis

The dosage of camphor concerns several industries:

• Nutraceuticals : quality control of food supplements and phytotherapeutic formulations.
• Cosmetics : verification of camphor content in skin care products, ointments and hair products.
• Plants and essential oils : standardization of plant extracts to guarantee effectiveness and safety.
• Pharmaceutical : local formulations based on camphor for their decongestant and analgesic effects.

Typically analyzed matrices

Camphor analysis is carried out in different matrices:

• Essential oils (camphor, rosemary, sage, lavender)
• Standardized plant extracts
• Dietary supplements and herbal formulations
• Cosmetic products (creams, balms, lotions)
• Local pharmaceutical preparations

Regulatory and security issues

The use of camphor is regulated, particularly in food and cosmetics. Its dosage is therefore essential for:

• Ensure consumer safety by respecting toxicological thresholds.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with European and international standards.
• Standardize products to ensure consistent effectiveness.
• Enhance formulations through certified analytical results.

YesWeLab support for your camphor analyses

YesWeLab provides its network of partner laboratories specialized in the chromatographic analysis of essential oils, plant extracts and cosmetic formulations.

Our partners, accredited and certified (ISO 17025, COFRAC), use validated methods to provide reliable, precise and recognized results.

Thanks to our digital platform, you benefit from:

• Quick and easy submission of your samples
• Real-time monitoring of your analyses
• Secure restitution that meets market standards

Our scientific team will assist you in choosing the methods best suited to your matrices and your specific needs.

Related analyses

• Analysis of monoterpenes (α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene)
• Dosage of 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol)
• Coumarin dosage
• Profiling of volatile compounds
• Flavonoid dosage