New insights into Sumatran camphor (Dryobalanops aromatica Gaertn) management and conservation in western coast Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract

Abstract Camphor resin has been harvested since the seventh century on western coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. Oils or crystals containing borneol collected from Sumatran camphor tree (Dryobalanops aromatica) for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and fragrances. However, illegal logging and land conversion put the vulnerable species threatened. Based on exploration, remaining camphor trees were found growing in small-inaccessible clusters on lowlands to hills in Aceh and North Sumatra. The population declining has a direct impact on camphor productivity. Camphor crystals have been harvested by cutting and splitting stems into logs and 1.5–2.5 kg of crystals were gathered, conventionally. Camphor extraction also conducted by applying a notch on trunk of standing trees and harvesting liquid resin that exudate from wounded resin channel. Branches and leaves biomass also contain camphor oil, especially young fresh leaves (25.6%). The volatile aromatic compound in this section reveals some opportunities for camphor provision through leaves distillation (yield 0.46-0.73%), a value-added from more sustainable scheme. High beneficial compound contained, 1.8 cineole reveals the opportunities for oil utilization as anti-viral, expectorant, and respiratory and blood vessels blockage treatments. Furthermore, tree improvement strategy initiated by collecting genetic material from various remaining provenances to support species conservation and breeding populations.