Morphological Characteristics and Main Uses of Camphor Leaves

Camphor leaves are the leaves of the camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora), an evergreen large tree of the Lauraceae family. The camphor tree, also known as the camphor laurel, is widely cultivated in the Yangtze River basin and areas to the south in China, and is commonly seen along roadsides and in courtyards and gardens. As the most easily observed part of the camphor tree, its leaves remain green for most of the year and are an important basis for identifying this tree species.

In terms of morphology, camphor leaves are mostly alternate, ovate or ovate-elliptic, nearly leathery in texture, smooth and glossy on the surface, darker green on the upper side and slightly lighter on the underside, with distinctly trinerved veins arising from above the base. When fresh leaves are crushed, a fresh scent resembling camphor can be detected. This distinctive odor is precisely the origin of the name "camphor" and is also the mark that distinguishes it from the leaves of many common landscaping tree species.

In everyday life, camphor leaves have many uses. Because they contain volatile aromatic substances, dried camphor leaves are often placed in wardrobes, rice bins and similar places to repel insect pests. In traditional folk custom, they are also used to make a decoction for bathing or for external application, but since such uses relate to physical health, they should be carried out under the guidance of professionals. In addition, camphor leaves are one of the raw materials for extracting aromatic substances such as camphor and camphor oil.

It should be noted that although the camphor tree is an evergreen tree, it does not mean it never sheds its leaves. Its old leaves mostly fall in a concentrated manner in spring when new leaves sprout, so every spring the ground beneath the trees can often be seen covered with yellow leaves. This is normal metabolism and no cause for concern. Understanding the characteristics and uses of camphor leaves will be of considerable help to us in recognizing and managing this common landscaping tree species.