We know White Tiger Balm for colds and other winter ailments, a little less so Red Tiger Balm which has a more “warming” effect on the muscles. Be careful, not everyone can use it…
“Red Tiger Balm is a natural remedy well known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties for muscle, joint, lumbar and tendon pain“, immediately introduces Shana Sarfati, naturopath. This balm is a creation of Dr. Aw Chu Kin, a Chinese herbalist, who formulated the product at the end of the 19th century in Burma. Since then, Red Tiger Balm has become popular around the world. “It contains Clove Essential Oil, Cajeput Essential Oil, Cinnamums Essential Oil, Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Camphor. This mixture is added to beeswax or petroleum jelly to facilitate application.“, she continues.
The 3 benefits of Red Tiger Balm
Red Tiger Balm is renowned for its natural benefits on the body, in particular for:
► It relieves muscle and joint pain: This balm is formulated with natural ingredients such as camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil, which can help soothe muscle and joint pain. Applying the balm to painful areas creates a warming sensation that can promote blood circulation and reduce pain.
► It improves breathing: The menthol ingredients in Red Tiger Balm can help clear the airways when applied to the chest. This can be beneficial for congestion or coughing.
► It relieves headache: “By gently massaging a small amount of balm onto the temples in a clockwise direction, it can help relieve headaches and tension.”.
What is the difference with White Tiger Balm?
Red Tiger Balm warms and relaxes the muscle
“Red Tiger Balm is often compared to White Tiger Balm, but Red Tiger Balm contains a more intense essence of mint and clove essential oil than in White Tiger Balm.“, explains our interlocutor. Red tiger balm is also considered to be more powerful. Red Tiger balm is therefore intended to warm the area of application, while white Tiger balm, for its part, provides a feeling of relief and immediate freshness. Indeed, the ingredients of Red Tiger Balm such as camphor and clove have a warming effect, while the eucalyptus contained in White Tiger Balm has a cooling effect. Red Tiger Balm also aims to relax the muscles. and activate blood circulation. “The choice between the two depends on personal preferences and individual sensitivity“, insists Shana Sarfati.
How to use Red Tiger Balm safely?
To ensure the absence of allergic reactions, it is recommended, prior to any use, to carry out a skin test by applying a small quantity of balm to the crease of the elbow and then leaving it to sit for 24 hours. To use Red Tiger Balm, the naturopath advises following the following steps:
- If there is no particular reaction, take a small amount of balm (a nut) in the palm of the hand. Warm the balm by gently rubbing your hands together.
- Apply the balm to the painful area, massaging gently until it is well absorbed.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth or other sensitive areas after application, as the ingredients may cause a burning sensation.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after use.
Who absolutely can’t use it?
Although Red Tiger Balm is a natural product, it may not be suitable for everyone. He must not NOT to be applied :
- On irritated, cut or broken skin
- In children under 7 years old
- In people who suffer from gallbladder
- In people with epilepsy
- In people who have bleeding disorders.
- Those pregnant or breastfeeding women, it is not absolutely contraindicated, but they should consult a health professional before use
Thanks to Shana Sarfati, naturopath and nutritionist.