Camphor Laurel
Camphor Laurel timber has a bad wrap. Is it just inherited racism (whether it’s recognised or not) against anything from countries with brown people? Probably. however, these are some pretty serious charges. The Camphor Tree is supposedly invasive, poisonous and can cause seizures.
A Noxious Weed
The invasive part is right at least. The Camphor tree is native to China, Japan and other parts of South East Asia and was brought to Australia in 1822 as an ornamental shade tree. Fast growing, with a large canopies containing up to 100,000 seeds, these trees quickly got out of control, out competing the natives, particularly around waterways. Many environmental and land management groups are work around the clock culling and restricting the spread of the weed. However, Camphor has long been known for its beautiful timber and companies have taken advantage of the wholesale tree clearing, making chopping boards, furniture, utensils and jewellery items.
White Walnut
Camphor Timber is one of my favourite timbers to use. It is a hard wood but soft enough to shape with hand tools, smells incredible and has beautiful complex figure and colouring. I compare it (somewhat mockingly) to walnut. Camphor has similar density and the complexity of timber grain patterns are remarkably alike. The main difference is colour. Walnut has long been known as the king of furniture timbers treasured for its strong, beautiful timber. The chocolate browns, brooding tones and the occasional splash of faint purple or red give it a depth and character many other timbers can’t match. Camphor is the lighter cousin, a brother from another mother if you will. Supposedly the dangerous one who has seen some stuff.
So is Camphor Laurel poisonous?
In the such small quantities, the short answer is no. The long answer, there have been studies proving consuming or breathing large amounts of the Camphor Laurel oil can be harmful. However, in the minute concentrations you consume by using camphor for serving or preparing food there is no evidence that it is harmful. Some people do experience very mild irritation and if you do don’t use Camphor products, very simple. I would go so far to say that it is less like that you will get sick from using Camphor Laurel products than if you use plastic as the oils kill bacteria and mould making healthier food.
