Saint-Bernard balm is a treatment for pain of muscular and tendon-ligament origin. It is available in pharmacies without a prescription.
What is Saint Bernard balm?
Saint-Bernard balm is a cream formulated by a pharmacist in the Alps facing the Saint-Bernard pass (hence its name). It is composed of isoamyl salicylate, camphor racemic, levomenthol and oleoresin capsicum. It is recommended in the local treatment of muscular and tendon-ligament pain. “It should be used in adults and childrens from 15 years oldand it is available without prescription“, specifies Caroline Heizmann, pharmacist in La Roche-sur-Yon.
What are its benefits ?
Saint-Bernard balm, due to its composition, goes facilitate muscle relaxation and relieve the resulting pain(s). Levomenthol has an action analgesic and analgesic : it is extracted frompeppermint essential oil ; isoamyl salicylate has an analgesic action and racemic camphor will induce a strong sensation of heat during the massage. “These different components by through massage will relax the painful area: a warming sensation and a minty smell appear from the start of the application“, explains our interlocutor.
Benefits on osteoarthritis?
Its anti-inflammatory action may perhaps act on osteoarthritis but Saint-Bernard balm was not designed with this in mind. “To my knowledge, there are no studies on the subject. specifies our interlocutor.
How effective is Tiger Balm?
The actions of St. Bernard balm and Red Tiger balm are quite similar. Their composition is different in terms of concentration of essential oils (camphor, menthol and eucalyptus): tiger balm is composed of three essential oils much more concentrated as the Saint-Bernard balm.. The red tiger balm is recommended for inflammation, muscle or joint pain and osteoarthritis. Using one of these two creams is a matter of personal choice.
Saint-Bernard balm is to apply in local massages on the painful area, 1 to 2 times a day, until complete penetration. It is advisable to do not exceed 5 days treatment without medical advice. It is very often used by athletes or people with back pain.
What contraindications?
Saint-Bernard balm is contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding women, children under 15 years of age and people with asthma “mainly due to the presence of essential oils in its composition” specifies the expert.
Thanks to Caroline Heizmann, pharmacist, La Roche-sur-Yon