An Over-The-Counter Topical Pain Reliever

Tiger Balm is a topical over-the-counter pain reliever.

It is often used to relieve back pain,joint pain, stiffness, sprains, andarthritis pain.

It is applied to the area that is in pain and absorbed through your skin.

A small jar of Tiger Balm.

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you’re free to buy it as a cream, gel, or liquid.

Most forms of Tiger Balm contain camphor and menthol.

Tiger Balm products may also contain other ingredients like cajuput oil,clove oil, and others.

Camphor works by increasing blood flow to the surface of the skin and creating a warming sensation.

Camphor and menthol may also help improve circulation and reduce inflammation.

It also looks at the ingredients and potential side effects of this medication.

Wirestock/ Getty Images

Tiger Balm Uses

Tiger balm is used to relieve both deep and superficial pain.

It is also sometimes also used to treat other conditions.

Some of its most common uses include:

Can I use Tiger Balm for a toothache?

Tiger Balm should only be used as a topical treatment.

How Tiger Balm Works

The active components of Tiger Balm come from plants.

They are blended with paraffin oil.

Today, over 20 million jars of Tiger Balm are sold each year in over 70 countries.

How to Use Tiger Balm

Tiger Balm is only used topically, on the skin.

Wash your hands with soap and water before use.

You should apply Tiger Balm to the part of your body where you are experiencing pain.

Massage the product into your skin until it is fully absorbed.

Wash your hands after use.

It should relieve your pain within 10 to 20 minutes.

you’re able to use Tiger Balm even if you use oral over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers.

Precautions and Side Effects

Tiger Balm is for external use only.

It should not be taken by mouth.

You should not use Tiger Balm on cuts, scrapes, or open wounds.

Skin irritation can cause pain, redness, or, rarely, bleeding of the affected area.

If you experience redness or irritation while using Tiger Balm, discontinue use.

You should also avoid activities that increase your body temperature, such as vigorous exercise.

Tiger Balm Products

Tiger Balm is available in different formulations.

Tiger Balm formulations include:

Why is Tiger Balm not FDA approved?

Summary

Tiger Balm is a topical pain reliever.

There’s some evidence that its ingredients may ease pain or reduce inflammation.

To use Tiger Balm, rub it into the skin in the area where you feel stiffness or pain.

A Word From Verywell

Sometimes pain is brought on by a serious or urgent medical condition.

For less severe pain such as joint pain or muscle aches, you might consider using Tiger Balm.

They can interact with prescription medications and cause side effects.

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