6 Science-Backed Uses for Tiger Balm: How This Remedy Has Been Providing Pain Relief for Centuries

A staple in many Asian households, Tiger Balm is an over-the-counter product that is said to have been created by a Chinese herbalist named Aw Chu Kin toward the end of the 19th century. Since its creation, it has been used in traditional Asian medical practices. 

Tiger Balm is primarily used to treat muscle pain, but there are also claims that it helps with headaches, colds, and rheumatic and arthritic pains. Here is a closer look at the science behind this popular herbal remedy.

What is Tiger Balm made of and how does it work?

Tiger Balm is topical analgesic (pain reliever) made of counterirritants, or substances that create inflammation in one part of the body in order to relieve inflammation in another. The three main ingredients found in Tiger Balm are:

1. Camphor

2. Menthol

3. Methyl salicylate

These ingredients work together to create warm and cold sensations on the skin by stimulating the muscles and increasing blood flow. These sensations are thought to help relieve pain.

In addition to the three main components, there are other active ingredients that contribute to its full-bodied, minty smell, including essential oils like: 

• Peppermint oil

• Cajeput oil

• Clove oil

• Eucalyptus oil

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Despite its name, Tiger Balm does not contain any animal products.

Types of Tiger Balm

There are two major variations of Tiger Balm: Red and White. Tiger Balm Red is the most popular type and targets muscle inflammation and joint pain. Tiger Balm White is mainly used for colds and headaches. The main difference between the two lies is the addition of eucalyptus oil in the White variations. 

Tiger Balm can be found in cream, gel, patch, and liquid forms. 

Tiger Balm uses

While fans of Tiger Balm claim that it effectively treats a wide range of issues — from toothaches and stretchmarks to toenail fungus and diarrhea — there is no scientific evidence to support these uses

The Tiger Balm website specifically claims the product can be used for sore muscles, joint pain, and minor bruises. But more evidence is still needed in this case, as well.

Here are six more common uses for Tiger Balm and what the science behind this age-old remedy suggests.

1. Muscle pain 

Treating muscle soreness is the most popular use of Tiger Balm. Research has shown the combination of menthol and methyl salicylate in patch form helped lower mild to moderate muscle pain. Research has also shown that the warming and cooling sensations of Tiger Balm ointment temporarily alleviate muscle pain. 

2. Tension headaches

According to an older study, people who used Tiger Balm for tension headaches reported significantly greater relief than those given a placebo. In the same study, Tiger Balm was found to be similarly effective to medication at treating tension headaches. 

3. Colds and congestion 

Tiger Balm may help with colds and coughs. While it’s unclear how Tiger Balm might help cold symptoms, some research suggests menthol can lessen coughing and promote better sleep. And it’s possible that getting a good night’s rest can contribute to recovery.

4. Back pain 

A small trial found that massaging a combination of menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil onto the skin can have positive effects against back pain. However, it’s difficult to determine whether the pain relief was a result of the topical application of Tiger Balm-like ingredients or the massage technique (gua sha).

5. Neck and shoulder tension 

Applying menthol as a topical gel has been linked to a potential reduction in neck pain and shoulder stiffness. But more research is needed to understand whether Tiger Balm, which contains menthol, has these same effects on neck and shoulder tension. 

6. Joint pain

Although there are no studies examining the effects of Tiger Balm on arthritic pain, one study found that topical solutions containing menthol can provide relief for joint pain associated with certain physical activities. However, there was no change in how participants performed the tasks before and after applying menthol gel. In other words, Tiger Balm might only help with perceived joint pain rather than joint function.

How to safely use Tiger Balm

Here are a few do’s and don’ts around using Tiger Balm safely.

Do’s: 

• Wash your hands with soap and water before applying Tiger Balm. 

• Apply a thin layer of Tiger Balm to your skin and massage gently. 

• For muscle aches and joint pain, simply apply Tiger Balm to the affected area. 

• To treat headaches and cold symptoms, apply Tiger Balm White to your temples or forehead. After application, be sure to wash your hands and avoid tightly bandaging or wrapping the affected area. 

• As the packaging recommends, test Tiger Balm on a small area of skin first.  

Don’ts: 

• Do not apply heat immediately after using Tiger Balm. Similarly, avoid activities that may raise your body temperature, such as hot baths or intense exercise. This is because heat may cause unwanted side effects.

• Do not apply Tiger Balm to cut or burnt skin.

• Do not ingest Tiger Balm. Avoid applying it too close to your eyes, mouth, nose, and genitals.

• Do not use Tiger Balm without talking with a healthcare provider if you are allergic to aspirin, salicylates, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).

• Do not exceed the dosage listed in the directions for a Tiger Balm product.

How frequently can you use Tiger Balm?

Tiger Balm can be applied up to 3 to 4 times a day. But if the symptoms you’re experiencing last longer than 7 days, talk with a healthcare provider. They can help you find out the underlying cause and recommend a treatment plan. 

Tiger Balm side effects

When used according to instructions on the label, Tiger Balm doesn’t have major side effects. But, in rare cases, severe skin burns could occur. Get immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Swelling

• Blistering

• Pain

Tiger Balm warnings

It’s critical to only use Tiger Balm topically and as directed. Overuse or ingestion can be toxic if your body absorbs too much camphor or methyl salicylate. 

Camphor toxicity can cause:

• Seizures

• Damage to the nervous system

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

Salicylate poisoning can cause:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Dizziness

• Rapid breathing

• Abdominal pain

Who should not use Tiger Balm?

People who are pregnant or breastfeeding and children under 2 should not use Tiger Balm.

Tiger Balm is safe for children over the age of 12 years. For children under the age of 12, the manufacturer recommends talking with a healthcare provider.

Alternatives to Tiger Balm

If Tiger Balm doesn’t appeal to you or if you notice signs of skin irritation or other unwanted side effects, you can try other anti-inflammatory creams for short-term pain relief. But depending on the severity and duration of your symptoms, it could be best to talk with a healthcare provider to find out the underlying cause of your pain.

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Written by:

Jo Chang

Jo Chang has worked as a book reviewer and literary editor. She is interested in raising awareness about reproductive health, gender and health, and socioeconomic barriers to healthcare.

Edited by:

Samvida Patel, MNSP, INHC

Samvida Patel, MNSP, INHC, is a health editor at GoodRx. She is a nutritionist and integrative nutrition health coach with over 8 years of experience in health communications.

Reviewed by:

Sanjai Sinha, MD

Sanjai Sinha, MD, is a board-certified physician with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in internal medicine.

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