Cinnamomum camphora (කපුරු)

  

Cinnamomum camphora, commonly known as the camphor tree, is a large evergreen tree native to East Asia but also found in tropical regions like Sri Lanka. It is known for its glossy leaves, aromatic wood, and production of camphor, a crystalline substance extracted from the tree’s bark and leaves.

The tree can grow up to 30 meters in height and is easily recognized by its fragrant foliage. Camphor extracted from the plant is widely used in traditional medicine, balms, and liniments for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiseptic properties. It is also used in incense and moth repellents due to its strong aroma.

In Sri Lanka, Cinnamomum camphora is cultivated in botanical gardens and used in Ayurvedic practices. The tree is valued not only for its medicinal applications but also for its environmental benefits, such as providing shade and improving air quality in urban landscapes.

Thriving in warm, humid climates, the camphor tree grows well in well-drained soils and can be seen year-round. It remains a significant species in herbal medicine, forestry, and horticulture, offering both ecological and therapeutic value.