False: Inhaling camphor and other natural ingredients will help to increase oxygen levels.

By: Rashmi S
April 26 2021

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Camphor will not increase the body's oxygen levels. Inhaling the scent can cause a number of serious medical issues.Some social media posts have claimed that inhaling the scent of camphor, cloves, carom seeds, and eucalyptus oil mixed in a small bag would help increase oxygen levels. The posts circulate with an image of the ingredients in a cloth bag. Those posts implied that it was the method would relieve respiratory problems in COVID-19 patients. Camphor is a combustible crystalline element that is commonly used to make creams, ointments, and oils. Some home remedies suggest that inhaling camphor vapors can heal clear nasal congestion. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), camphor vapors can cause nose, mouth, and eye irritation, as well as seizures, delirium, stomach ache, and in some cases, death. No credible medical or science journals have confirmed camphor's therapeutic effect of clearing one's nasal passages or increasing the body's blood oxygen levels. Clove is a known spice used in many cuisines around the world. Some home remedies suggest that cloves help respiratory ailments. The research focused on therapeutic potential in light of COVID-19, published by the University of Naples Federico II in March 2021, stated that cloves consist of a compound called eugenol. The article also said that pure eugenol vapors, when inhaled, can be toxic. Ninety percent of eucalyptus oil is made out of eucalyptol. It is a colorless oil that doesn't dissolve in water and has a fresh minty fragrance. Eucalyptus oil has properties to help cure chronic respiratory illness through its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. According to Healthline, carom seeds are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. Because of these qualities, carom seeds are used in home remedies to help with various ailments. However, there is no scientific data to prove that any clove, carom seed, or eucalyptus oil properties can increase the body's oxygen levels or help with respiratory problems. There is no evidence that a combination of those ingredients raises the body's oxygen levels in any way. Individually some of those ingredients may bring short-term relief, but there is no medical or scientific information to verify what is being claimed. No medical organizations, doctors, or governments have recommended it to tackle COVID-19. The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to a lot of potentially dangerous misinformation. For reliable advice on COVID-19 including symptoms, prevention and available treatment, please refer to the World Health Organisation or your national healthcare authority.