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This substance is quite well-known and practically present in almost every household. It`s found in your air freshener, in your moth repellent, in that anti-itch gel, or in the balsam you use as chest rub. I`m referring to camphor, that aromatic substance present in many household products and OTC medicines.

The New York Health Department recently issued this warning to parents: Camphor can be very dangerous for children!!! Several cases of camphor intoxication have recently been reported in NYC. Three cases have been confirmed in Bronx and seven others are still being investigated. Fortunately, there were no fatalities.

What we should know is that camphor intoxication does not only come from kids accidentally eating it. It can also occur when it is excessively applied to the skin. Camphor is readily absorbed through the skin and gives you that coolness very similar to menthol. However, unlike menthol, camphor can be toxic. The main signs of camphor intoxication are seizures, tummy ache, vomiting, and agitation.

Tags: Camphor, intoxication, seizures, warning