Camphor became known in Europe around the 12th century. It was one of several precious aromatic substances in high esteem, traded by the Arabic cultures. Around 1600, it was part of anti-infective preparations, such as pomanders (small devices filled with aromatic substances), fumigations or pills. It was also administered as a revitalising agent in cases of synkope or fatal conditions. In the 19th century, it was widely used as a disinfectant, and also as a remedy against cough and headache. Popular camphor preparations had a broad spectrum of indications. Both for prescribed medicines and for over the counter medicines, it has remained so until the present day. Since the 17th century, it was used as an explosive, it was requested in larger quantities after the invention of smokeless gun power. Around 1900, the invention of celluloid for plastic objects and films boosted demand.

       Rising demand became palpable in mid- 19th century. In Taiwan, the Japanese colonial government strove for a monopoly and increased refining and export of camphor.
European attempts at synthesizing camphor remained at first disappointing. Since the early 19th century, several manufactures refining camphor were set up throughout Europe, some also in Germany. In early 20th century, the amount of camphor for technical use by far exceeded its medicinal use. Although a full chemical synthesis was possible since 1903, the natural product and has maintained its importance.

       The project will focus on the attributed effects and use of camphor in the longue-durée, especially

• on the symbolic meaning of its region of origin and its effects?
• on the shift from camphor as a costly, exotic substance and a cheap over-the-counter drug come about?
• on the links between its character as “cash crop” and medicinal substance.