We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Tiger Balm is an over-the-counter product that claims to temporarily relieve minor muscle aches, pains, and strains.
It does so by numbing the skin, as an analgesic. Regular- and extra-strength preparations of Tiger Balm are available. The formulations, scents, and packaging may differ, depending on the region where a person buys it.
In this article, learn about the uses of Tiger Balm, the active ingredients, and the possible side effects. The active ingredients in one formulation of regular-strength Tiger Balm include:. Most evidence for the benefits of Tiger Balm is based on what researchers know about its active ingredients.
Ingredients in the balm, such as camphor, increase blood flow to the surface of the skin, creating a warming sensation that can distract from pain and stiffness. Camphor and menthol may also improve blood circulation to the muscles, potentially speeding up healing time and reducing inflammation. In a small study , nine adults who applied petroleum jelly that contained 5, 10, or 20 percent camphor to their forearms experienced increased blood flow to their skin and muscles.
Other ingredients in Tiger Balm, such methyl salicylate, act as analgesics and numb the skin, which may reduce stiffness and aches. Tiger Balm adhesive patches may be the most useful for muscle pains and strains, as a patch steadily releases the active ingredients over a prolonged period.
Some versions of Tiger Balm contain capsicum, the active ingredient in chili peppers. Capsicum blocks nerve receptors that transmit pain impulses, creating a warm sensation that can lessen the intensity of muscle aches and strains. Capsicum may reduce many types of aches , including those from arthritis , cancer , and gastrointestinal problems.
Authors of a study from found that applying Tiger Balm to the forehead was more effective at relieving tension headaches than a placebo. It was almost as effective as taking acetaminophen Tylenol. While current medical reviews of alternative headache remedies continue to cite this study, more up-to-date research is necessary.
Tiger Balm contains ingredients that may help relieve sinus and chest congestion. Some have been used for centuries in oils, ointments, and inhalant form to ease congestion from colds and allergies.
Camphor acts as a mild expectorant, nasal decongestant, and cough suppressant. Menthol may help soothe irritated nasal passageways, helping to relieve stuffy noses. In a study , 14 people who inhaled a 1 percent menthol solution before being exposed to capsicum, a cough-inducer, took longer to cough than those who did not use the menthol solution. People looking to use Tiger Balm for congestion or other cold symptoms should purchase formulas that do not contain cough-inducers, such as capsicum and clove oil.
People frequently use Tiger Balm to relieve back pain , especially pain in the lower back. Some use certain ingredients in Tiger Balm before or after receiving alternative treatments for back pain, including Gua Sha therapy.
Lifetime 0 Expired 0 Redeemed 0. Total redeemable TimesPoints 0. Notification Center. Pain relief balms that you should keep at home. Want to buy a pain relief balm that will work effectively on headache and other body aches? We have a list of some of the most popular and affordable options that are worth your money. When it comes to pain relief products in India, balms have been quite popular for years.
These balms are available in concentrated forms and a little amount of the balm can easily be rubbed over the area where you are experiencing pain. A good pain relief balm can easily help you get rid of most of the muscular pains in a few minutes.
Since it can easily be spread on the affected area, a small tub or bottle of the balm is sufficient for long. A: Topical pain relievers work best on acute musculoskeletal pain, rather than chronic pain.
So if you have a nagging sore neck or pulled a muscle in your shoulder , you might benefit from slathering on a layer. Discomfort and pain associated with cancer has also been shown to improve from topical pain relievers. A patch typically works well on an area where it can be applied to a flat surface, so it might be best to reach for this product with back or neck pain. On the other hand, a cream or gel might be best for a sore elbow or knee so that the joint can still move and bend.
Never mix these products with heat, such as from a heating pad. Doing so could cause the product to be absorbed into the blood stream at a faster rate. A: Most topical pain relievers should not be used over seven days.
Using it for longer than directed could result in a rash or sometimes even a chemical burn. Stop use if your condition worsens or the area becomes irritated. He or she can help you solve the problem of your nagging pain and might even prescribe a prescription based topical pain reliever.
0コメント