TIGER BALM OINTMENT WHITE | RED EDITION Muscular Joint Flu Cold Toothache Neck

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.