Description -
Tiger Balm is an over-the-counter topical analgesic. It's often used to relieve back pain, joint pain, stiffness, sprains, and arthritis pain. It's applied to the painful area and absorbed through the skin. It's available in cream, gel, or liquid form.

Most forms of Tiger Balm contain camphor and menthol. Tiger Balm products may also contain other ingredients such as cajuput oil, clove oil, and others. Camphor works by increasing blood flow to the skin's surface and creating a warming sensation. Camphor and menthol may also help improve circulation and reduce inflammation.

This article discusses the over-the-counter topical pain reliever Tiger Balm, how it works, and how to use it. It also examines the ingredients and potential side effects of this medication.

Directions for use -
Simply rub it on a sore spot, and after a moment you will feel relaxation, pleasant sensations, and a subtle cooling effect.

Contains:

• Camphor 25%
• Menthol 10%
• Cajuput oil 7%
• Peppermint oil 6%
• Clove oil 5%
• Cassia oil 5%
• Paraffin and Petrolatum

Use:

• Muscle Pain: Tiger Balm is traditionally used to treat muscle aches and pains from overuse and minor injuries.
• Joint Pain: Tiger Balm is often used to treat joint pain due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other conditions affecting the joints.
• Back, neck, and shoulder pain: Studies have found topical menthol to be superior to placebo for treating pain and improving range of motion in the back and neck.12
• Headaches: Research has found Tiger Balm to be as effective as Tylenol (acetaminophen) for headaches.1
• Shingles pain: Shingles can cause long-lasting pain, including neuropathic pain. Camphor and menthol may help relieve this type of pain. However, Tiger Balm should not be applied to shingles blisters, as they may break and crust over.
• Stomach pain: Anecdotally, camphor and menthol are sometimes applied to the abdomen to help treat stomach pain, but this is not yet supported by research.

Do not apply directly under the nose or use for cold symptoms in children under 2 years of age.
Insect bite discomfort: Some people use Tiger Balm to relieve the itching or stinging of insect bites. It is also sometimes used as a mosquito repellent.4