Refers to the chemical substance camphor, historically used as a cardiotonic drug.
from Dutch kamfer
Camphor is a substance obtained from camphor trees.
shot in the arm; stimulus; impetus
Figurative use derived from the historical medical use of camphor as a stimulant; often used in phrases like カンフル剤となる (to serve as a stimulus).
The new policy served as a shot in the arm for the economy.
The policy served as a shot in the arm for the economic recovery.
The doctor gave the patient a camphor injection.