Evaluation of the Camphor effects on histological parameters of skin in adult mice and the protective role of vitamin E

Camphor is known to Asian nations for many centuries. The camphor can be used in traditional medicine as an aromatic substance, sexual thrills controller, for cosmetic uses such as the rose color of skin, stimulating blood circulation and respiratory system, mental stimuli, hair removal. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of camphor on the skin parameters and the protective role of vitamin E as a potent antioxidant in the treatment of complications of camphor.

In this study, 50 male mice (BALB/c) with 20-25 gr weight were used randomly in 5 groups. The control group received normal saline, and two of the groups as control-sham received olive oil alone and the combination of the vitamin E and olive oil. Finally, two experimental groups received camphor alone (30 mg/kg) with daily rubbing on the interscapular region and camphor with vitamin E (100 mg/kg) daily by gavage for 35 days. At the end of the period, the skin samples were taken, and after tissue processing and preparing sections, histological parameters were evaluated.

The results showed a significant reduction in the number of hair follicles, changes in dermal thickness, and a maximum depth of follicles in the group received the camphor. While the vitamin E was slightly able to reduce the effects of camphor (P <0.05).

It can be concluded that camphor causes a decrease in hair follicles, and vitamin E as an antioxidant can improve the adverse effects of camphor on skin quality.