​Borneolum — Camphor Borneol

Borneolum — Camphor Borneol

Product Name: Борнеол камфорный, Borneolum, Borneol, بورنيول, บอร์นีออล, borneol.

Synonyms: борнеол, камфорный спирт, borneol, bornyl alcohol, Borneol, بورنيول, บอร์นีออล

Parts Used: leaves, bark, stems, roots.

Main Indications for Use of Borneolum: pain, inflammation, infectious respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, neuropathic pain, antiseptic therapy.

Use of Borneolum in Mixtures and Complexes: allergic reactions, chronic bronchitis, gastritis, neuralgia, skin infections.

Pharmacological Properties of Borneolum: antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, adaptogenic.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Borneolum

Powder — Borneolum

Indications (Powder): neuropathic pain, inflammation, infectious respiratory diseases, gastroenteritis, skin infections.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 0.1–0.3 g twice daily orally, can be taken with water or added to food.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 0.4–0.6 g twice daily for acute inflammatory processes of the respiratory tract and severe neuropathic pain.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): up to 1 g per day for severe infectious conditions and inflammations, under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.05 g once daily for 1 month for chronic inflammations and predisposition to respiratory infections.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): from 12 years old and weighing from 40 kg, 0.05–0.1 g once daily.

Contraindications (Powder): individual intolerance. Data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Powder): overdose — dizziness, nausea, allergic reactions.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): For patients under 60 kg, dosage is reduced by 20%; over 60 kg — standard.

Preparation Method (Powder): powder is obtained by drying and grinding plant roots and stems. Raw materials are dried at 40–50°C until moisture content is no more than 10%, ground into powder to a fraction of 0.2 mm. Powder is packaged in airtight containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store Borneolum powder in a dry, cool place at 15–25°C, in dark packaging. Shelf life — 2 years. After opening the package, use within 3 months.

Dry Extract — Borneolum

Indications (Dry Extract): inflammation, neuropathic pain, gastroenteritis, respiratory infections, skin diseases.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract):0.2–0.4 g twice daily orally.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 0.5–0.8 g twice daily for acute inflammations and infections.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): up to 1 g per day for severe conditions under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 0.1 g once daily for chronic inflammatory processes for one month.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): from 12 years old, 0.05–0.1 g once daily.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): individual intolerance. Contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): overdose — dizziness, allergy, nausea.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): For patients weighing under 60 kg, dosage is reduced by 20%; over 60 kg — standard.

Preparation Method (Dry Extract): is obtained by extracting raw materials with 70% ethanol followed by solvent removal by evaporation at a temperature not exceeding 50°C to a residual moisture of 5%. Complete solvent removal is controlled by the absence of odor. The extract is taken into powder form. For 100 g of extract, 500 g of raw material and 1500 ml of 70% ethanol are required.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in an airtight dark container at 15–25°C. Shelf life 2 years. After opening, use within 6 months.

Tincture — Borneolum

Indications (Tincture): respiratory infections, inflammation of mucous membranes, neuropathic pain, skin inflammations.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 20–30 drops twice daily orally, diluted in water.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 40–50 drops twice daily for acute inflammatory processes of the respiratory tract and skin infections.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): up to 60 drops per day under medical supervision for severe conditions.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10 drops once daily for chronic inflammations for 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): for children from 12 years old, 5–10 drops once daily, diluted in water.

Contraindications (Tincture): individual intolerance. Contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in childhood are not scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Tincture): overdose — stomach irritation, dizziness, allergic reactions.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): For patients under 60 kg, dosage is reduced by 20%; over 60 kg — standard.

Preparation Method (Tincture): is prepared by infusing crushed plant material (100 g) in 70% ethanol (500 ml) at room temperature in a dark place for 14 days with periodic shaking. After infusion, filter and store in a dark container. Complete solvent removal is not required, as alcohol is a component of the tincture. Only food-grade ethanol is used.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): in a tightly closed dark bottle at 15–25°C. Shelf life 2 years. After opening, use within 6 months.

Oil Infusion — Borneolum

Indications (Oil Infusion): skin inflammations, analgesia, joint inflammation, neuralgia.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): apply externally 2–3 times daily, apply a thin layer to affected areas.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): increase application frequency to 4 times daily for acute skin inflammations and neuralgia.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): up to 5 times daily, under medical supervision for severe pain and inflammations.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): once daily for chronic dermatitis and arthritis for one month.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): for children from 6 years old, external application 1–2 times daily, limited by application area.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): individual intolerance to components. Contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not established.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): overdose — local skin irritation, allergic reactions.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): Dosage adjustment not required, topical application.

Preparation Method (Oil Infusion): is prepared with coconut oil (100 g). Dry crushed raw material (10 g) is poured with coconut oil, heated in a water bath at 40–45°C for 4 hours with periodic stirring, then strained through gauze and packaged. Store in an airtight container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in a dark, cool place at 5–15°C. Shelf life 6 months. After opening — no more than 2 months.

Vaginal Suppositories — Borneolum

Indications (Vaginal Suppositories): vaginitis, colpitis, inflammatory processes of the female genital organs.

Standard Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): insert 1 suppository once daily at night for 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): 1 suppository twice daily for acute inflammations up to 14 days.

Maximum Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): up to 3 suppositories per day for severe inflammatory processes under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): 1 suppository once every 3 days for chronic vaginitis, course 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): are contraindicated for children.

Contraindications (Vaginal Suppositories): individual intolerance. Data on pregnancy and lactation are not registered.

Side Effects (Vaginal Suppositories): overdose — local irritation, burning, allergy.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Vaginal Suppositories): Not required.

Preparation Method (Vaginal Suppositories): To prepare 100 g of , use 10 g of borneol powder, 90 g of solid coconut and cocoa butter. Mix the powder with melted coconut and cocoa butter at 40–45°C, pour into molds, cool until solid.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Vaginal Suppositories): Store suppositories at 2–8°C, away from light and moisture. Shelf life 12 months. After opening the package, use within 1 month.

Rectal Suppositories — Borneolum

Indications (Rectal Suppositories): proctitis, hemorrhoids, inflammatory processes in the rectum.

Standard Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): insert 1 suppository once daily at night, course 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): 1 suppository twice daily for pronounced inflammation up to 14 days.

Maximum Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): up to 3 suppositories per day under medical supervision for severe conditions.

Preventive Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): 1 suppository once every 3 days for chronic proctitis, course 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): are contraindicated for children.

Contraindications (Rectal Suppositories): individual intolerance. Contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not registered.

Side Effects (Rectal Suppositories): overdose — burning, itching, allergic reactions.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Rectal Suppositories): Not required.

Preparation Method (Rectal Suppositories): Similar to vaginal suppositories, mix 10 g of borneol powder with 90 g of coconut and cocoa butter, pour into molds, cool.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Rectal Suppositories): Store at 2–8°C. Shelf life 12 months. After opening — 1 month.

Nasal Drops — Borneolum

Indications (Nasal Drops): rhinitis, sinusitis, inflammation of the nasal mucosa, allergic rhinitis.

Standard Dosage (Nasal Drops): 2–3 drops into each nostril twice daily.

Enhanced Dosage (Nasal Drops): 4–5 drops into each nostril three times daily for acute inflammations.

Maximum Dosage (Nasal Drops): up to 6 drops into each nostril four times daily under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Nasal Drops): 1–2 drops once daily for chronic rhinitis, course 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Nasal Drops): from 6 years old, 1–2 drops 1–2 times daily.

Contraindications (Nasal Drops): individual intolerance. Contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Nasal Drops): overdose — burning, dryness of mucous membrane, allergy.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Nasal Drops): Not required.

Preparation Method (Nasal Drops): are prepared by dissolving 1 g of dry borneol extract in 100 ml of sterile isotonic sodium chloride solution with the addition of 0.5 g of coconut oil to moisturize the mucous membrane. The solution is thoroughly mixed and filtered before packaging.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Nasal Drops): Store in a dark glass container at 5–15°C. Shelf life 6 months. After opening, use within 1 month.

Ear Drops — Borneolum

Indications (Ear Drops): otitis, inflammation of the external ear, infectious ear diseases.

Standard Dosage (Ear Drops): 3–4 drops twice daily into the ear canal.

Enhanced Dosage (Ear Drops): 5–6 drops three times daily for acute otitis.

Maximum Dosage (Ear Drops): up to 8 drops four times daily under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Ear Drops): 2 drops once daily for chronic inflammations, course 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Ear Drops): from 6 years old, 2–3 drops 1–2 times daily.

Contraindications (Ear Drops): individual intolerance. Contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Ear Drops): overdose — irritation, itching, allergy.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ear Drops): Not required.

Preparation Method (Ear Drops): are prepared based on 0.5 g of dry borneol extract dissolved in 100 ml of sterile coconut oil. The mixture is thoroughly mixed and filtered before packaging.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ear Drops): Store in a dark, airtight container at 5–15°C. Shelf life 6 months. After opening — 1 month.

Ointment — Borneolum

Indications (Ointment): dermatitis, eczema, wounds, burns, skin inflammations, neuropathic pain.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): apply a thin layer to affected areas 2–3 times daily.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): apply up to 4 times daily for acute inflammatory skin processes.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): up to 5 times daily, under medical supervision for pronounced pain and inflammation.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): once daily for chronic dermatitis, course 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): for children from 6 years old, apply 1–2 times daily to limited areas.

Contraindications (Ointment): individual intolerance. Contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Ointment): overdose — local irritation, allergic reactions.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ointment): Not required, topical application.

Preparation Method (Ointment): For 100 g of ointment, mix 10 g of borneol powder with 90 g of base coconut oil and beeswax (in a 3:1 ratio with oil). Melt oil and wax at 50°C, add powder, mix thoroughly and cool until thickened.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a tightly closed jar at 5–15°C. Shelf life 6 months. After opening, use within 2 months.

Cream — Borneolum

Indications (Cream): skin inflammation, irritation, dermatitis, neuropathic pain, itching.

Standard Dosage (Cream): apply twice daily in a thin layer.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): apply 3–4 times daily for acute skin inflammations.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): up to 5 times daily under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): once daily for chronic skin diseases, course 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): for children from 6 years old, application 1–2 times daily.

Contraindications (Cream): individual intolerance. Contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not registered.

Side Effects (Cream): overdose — allergic reactions, skin irritation.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cream): Not required.

Preparation Method (Cream): is prepared by mixing 10 g of borneol powder with 60 g of coconut oil and 30 g of vegetable-derived emulsifier. Raw materials are melted and emulsified at 45–50°C, stirred until homogeneous consistency.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store in airtight packaging at 5–25°C. Shelf life 6 months. After opening, use within 3 months.

Cosmetic Serum — Borneolum

Indications (Cosmetic Serum): skin irritation, inflammation, reduced skin sensitivity, age-related changes.

Standard Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): applied 1–2 times daily to cleansed skin of face and neck.

Enhanced Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): applied 3 times daily for pronounced skin irritation and inflammation.

Maximum Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): up to 4 times daily under cosmetologist supervision for acute dermatitis.

Preventive Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): once daily to maintain skin health and prevent age-related changes, course 1–3 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): is contraindicated for children.

Contraindications (Cosmetic Serum): individual intolerance to components. Contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not registered.

Side Effects (Cosmetic Serum): overdose — redness, itching, allergic reactions.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cosmetic Serum): Not required.

Preparation Method (Cosmetic Serum): To prepare 100 g of cosmetic serum, mix 2 g of borneol powder with 95 ml of distilled water and 3 g of coconut oil, emulsify using a vegetable emulsifier at 40°C until homogeneous. Store in a sterile dark container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cosmetic Serum): Store at 5–15°C in a dark place. Shelf life 6 months. After opening, use within 1 month.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Borneolum

According to experimental studies, the median lethal dose (LD50) of borneol upon oral administration in rats is approximately 4700 mg/kg body weight, characterizing the substance as low-hazard at moderate doses. With external application, toxicity is significantly lower; with proper dosing, borneol exhibits high biocompatibility and safety. Studies also note low cumulative toxicity and absence of significant carcinogenic potential. Use at therapeutic doses is not accompanied by serious side effects.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go....

Camphor Borneol is a natural organic compound from the group of monoterpene alcohols. Chemically, it is a bicyclic alcohol with a characteristic camphor odor. Borneol is obtained mainly from the essential oils of plants such as sandalwood (Santalum album), plants of the genus Blumea, as well as from coniferous and some other woody species.

For the production of borneol, plant raw materials containing essential oils are used, from which oil containing borneol is obtained by steam distillation or extraction. Then borneol is isolated and purified by fractional distillation or crystallization. In nature, borneol occurs in two stereoisomeric forms: D-borneol and L-borneol, with the D-form being more common and biologically active.

Thus, borneol is a plant component of essential oils, isolated from the wood and leaves of certain plants, possessing a characteristic aroma and pharmacological activity.

Pharmacodynamics of Borneolum

Camphor borneol is a monoterpene alcohol with pronounced pharmacological properties due to its chemical structure and interaction with the body's biological systems. At the systemic level, borneol demonstrates complex action, affecting the nervous, immune, endocrine, digestive, and skin systems.

The main pharmacodynamic effects are related to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and neuroprotective action. Borneol is capable of modulating immune cell activity, suppressing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing the severity of the inflammatory response. This is mediated by influence on cellular signaling pathways, including through inhibition of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes, leading to reduced production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes.

In the nervous system, borneol exerts sedative and analgesic action by interacting with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, which contributes to the enhancement of inhibitory processes and reduction of pain sensitivity. Influence on ion channels is also noted, which may underlie the antispasmodic effect due to relaxation of smooth muscle, especially in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.

The antimicrobial properties of borneol are associated with its ability to disrupt the membrane integrity of bacteria and fungi, as well as suppress the synthesis of enzymes important for microorganisms. Antioxidant action is realized through scavenging free radicals and increasing the activity of endogenous detoxification systems, contributing to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.

At the level of the skin, borneol promotes tissue regeneration, improves microcirculation and reduces inflammation, making it an effective component in topical products. Local application enhances skin permeability, promoting more effective penetration of active substances.

Thus, the pharmacodynamics of borneol is characterized by multifaceted effects on cellular and molecular targets with systemic and local effects, which determines its broad therapeutic applicability and high bioavailability in various pharmacological forms.

Reference: PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online Library, PMC, Phytochem NAL.

Pharmacokinetics of Borneolum

After oral administration, borneol is well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract due to its lipophilic nature. A significant portion of the substance undergoes primary metabolism in the liver, mainly through oxidation and conjugation with glucuronic and sulfuric acids, contributing to the formation of more polar metabolites. These metabolites have reduced pharmacological activity and are excreted primarily in urine and bile.

With transdermal and topical administration, borneol penetrates the epidermis due to its low molecular weight and lipophilicity, reaching underlying tissues and systemic vessels. Through mucous membranes, for example, when using nasal or ear drops, the substance is rapidly absorbed and enters the systemic circulation, ensuring a rapid onset of action.

In the systemic circulation, borneol binds to plasma proteins, which affects its distribution in the body. It penetrates the blood-brain barrier, exerting effects on the central nervous system. The liver and kidneys play a key role in metabolism and excretion, while the participation of the lungs and skin in the elimination of the substance is minimal but possible with external application.

Interaction with intestinal microflora may influence the metabolism of borneol, potentiating the formation of active metabolites. Accumulation in tissues is generally insignificant and quickly compensated by biotransformation and elimination processes, reducing the risk of toxicity at recommended doses.

Thus, the pharmacokinetics of borneol ensures its effective systemic and local action, as well as high bioavailability via various routes of administration, which is important in the development and use of pharmacological forms.

Reference: PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online Library, PMC, Phytochem NAL.

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Borneolum

Camphor borneol is a monoterpene alcohol that exhibits a wide range of biological effects through interaction with various biochemical targets and cellular systems. The main mechanisms of action are related to its ability to modulate inflammatory processes by suppressing the activation of transcription factors such as NF-κB and MAPK, leading to reduced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6). Borneol inhibits the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes, reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, thereby contributing to the anti-inflammatory effect.

In the nervous system, borneol interacts with type A gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABA_A), enhancing inhibitory neuronal inhibition, which provides sedative and analgesic action. Influence on voltage-gated ion channels, including calcium and sodium channels, has also been identified, explaining the antispasmodic effect and reduction in pain impulse transmission. Borneol exerts a neuroprotective effect, reducing oxidative stress and preventing neuronal apoptosis through modulation of JAK/STAT pathways and reduction in free radical production.

The immunomodulatory activity of borneol is realized through influence on macrophages and neutrophils, improving phagocytic activity and cytokine balance, which contributes to the optimization of the immune response. The antimicrobial effect is associated with the destruction of the lipid layer of microorganism membranes and inhibition of key enzymatic systems of bacteria and fungi.

At the skin level, borneol promotes regeneration, improving microcirculation and stimulating cell proliferation, while simultaneously providing antioxidant protection, which improves recovery processes and reduces inflammation.

Thus, the pharmacodynamics of borneol relies on multilevel effects on cellular signaling cascades, enzyme systems, and receptors, providing complex anti-inflammatory, analgesic, neuroprotective, and antimicrobial action.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go..., https://www.sciencedirect.com/..., https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p....

Synergy — Borneolum

Research shows that camphor borneol exhibits synergistic action when combined with a number of other phytochemicals and plant extracts. In particular, the combination of borneol with essential oils containing terpenes and phenols enhances its antimicrobial activity, which is confirmed by additive and potentiating effects against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Borneol in combination with flavonoids and polyphenols enhances cellular antioxidant protection, manifested in more pronounced reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation.

From a neuropharmacological perspective, borneol enhances sedative and analgesic action in combination with substances interacting with GABA receptors, for example, extracts of valerian and passionflower, realizing a modulating effect on the central nervous system. Furthermore, borneol in combination with other antimicrobial components (e.g., eugenol or thymol) demonstrates a protective effect, contributing to a reduction in the development of microorganism resistance.

In the immunomodulatory sphere, borneol complements the action of saponins and polysaccharides, enhancing phagocytic activity and normalizing the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, which improves the systemic immune response. Synergy with glucocorticoid modulators allows for reducing side effects and increasing the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory reactions.

Thus, scientific data confirm that camphor borneol exhibits additive and potentiating interactions with a number of natural substances, enhancing holistic pharmacological action at the systemic and tissue level.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go..., https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p..., https://www.sciencedirect.com/....

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Borneolum

Camphor borneol has been traditionally used in a number of Asian regions, including China, India, Thailand, and Japan, where it has been incorporated into classical medical systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and Thai tradition. In these cultures, borneol was valued for its pronounced antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to improve energy circulation and enhance the action of other medicinal plants.

In TCM, borneol is used as a component of complex herbal formulations for the therapy of inflammatory and painful conditions, as well as for cleansing the respiratory tract and improving digestion. In Ayurveda, borneol is known under the name "Tulasi," and was used in the form of infusions, ointments, and inhalations to alleviate symptoms of cold and inflammations. In Thai folk medicine, borneol was used as a base for preparing oil tinctures and compresses used for skin diseases, rheumatism, and neuralgias.

Ethnographic data indicate that borneol has been known in Southeast Asia since ancient times, its use is recorded in written sources dating to the first millennium AD. In traditional compendiums, such as the Chinese herbal "Ben Cao Gang Mu," borneol is described as a "plant of power" with a broad spectrum of action.

Beyond medical application, borneol played a role in ritual and magical practices. In the culture of Southeast Asian peoples, borneol was considered a means of purifying space from evil spirits and was used in ceremonies related to healing and protection. In some regions, it was used as a smoking agent, believing in its ability to provide spiritual protection and enhance concentration.

In Slavic and Eastern European traditions, information on the use of borneol is significantly less; however, its resinous and coniferous substances, similar in chemical composition, were widely used for treating wounds and purifying air. Modern use of borneol in phytotherapy is widespread in many countries worldwide due to the international recognition of its pharmacological properties.

Thus, camphor borneol has a rich history of use in traditional medical and cultural practices primarily in the Asian region, maintaining relevance in modern phytotherapy.