Cinnamomum kanehirae, a valuable tree with a variety of uses, including making camphor, essential oils, and furniture

Cinnamomum kanehirae is an evergreen tree native to Taiwan. It is also known as the Taiwan camphor or Stout camphor. The tree can grow up to 30 m tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 2 m. The bark is brown and fissured.

The leaves are alternate, coriaceous, entire, and have a polished surface. They are broadly ovate to elliptic, 10-15 cm long and 4-7.5 cm wide. The leaves are green and glabrous on both sides, usually with 0-3 or often 5 main veins. The petioles are 1.4-3 cm long and grooved above. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant. They are borne in panicles or racemes. The fruits are small, brown capsules that contain 1-2 seeds.

The leaves of Cinnamomum kanehirae have been used for a variety of purposes, including:

• Making camphor. The leaves are distilled to produce camphor, which is a white, crystalline substance with a strong odor. Camphor has been used for centuries for a variety of purposes, including as a moth repellent, a liniment, and a topical anesthetic.

• Making essential oils. The leaves can also be distilled to produce essential oils, which have a variety of medicinal and aromatic properties. Cinnamomum kanehirae essential oil is used in aromatherapy to relieve stress, anxiety, and pain. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including coughs, colds, and rheumatism.

• Making furniture. The wood of Cinnamomum kanehirae is strong and durable, and it is often used in making furniture. It is also used in making carvings and other decorative objects.

Cinnamomum kanehirae is a valuable tree that has a variety of uses. It is important to note that the leaves and essential oil of Cinnamomum kanehirae can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any products made from this plant.

Ref.:

• https://bard.google.com/