What is Tiger Balm?
Sold in jars, Tiger Balm is an herbal ointment that contains two main ingredients: camphor, an oil made from the bark of a certain evergreen tree, and menthol, an ingredient found naturally in
peppermint.(The manufacturers of Tiger Balm claim that it was "first used for Chinese emperors." ) When applied to the surface of the skin, Tiger Balm's active ingredients help relieve pain and irritation and promote circulation.
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What is it used for?
Tiger Balm is most often used to soothe sore muscles after working out or other activity. Some people rub it on their chest (similar to the way you would use Vicks VapoRub) to help relieve congestion caused by
colds and flus. Tiger Balm can also be used on
insect stings and bites: its active ingredients stimulate nerve endings in the skin and may distract you from the pain or itch caused by those pesky little critters.
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Caution!
Tiger Balm is for external use only. Be careful not to use it on cuts, scrapes, or any other kind of open wounds.
The use of herbs is not recommended during pregnancy and breast-feeding except under the guidance of a health professional.
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