Anyone who’s stood within wafting distance of a marathon knows the smell: Tiger Balm. The classic pain-relieving ointment can be traced to a Chinese herbalist who began selling it in the 1870s; subsequently commercialized by his sons, it’s been sold around the world ever since. The balm promises to “work where it hurts,” and many medical and sports professionals agree: A vigorous rub of the ointment on a sore muscle or bruised body part eases the aches. But unlike ibuprofen or aspirin, Tiger Balm doesn’t attack the source of the pain. It’s made of so-called counterirritants, substances that cause mild hot and cool sensations on your skin to distract your brain. In other words, Tiger Balm won’t pounce on your pain—but it will confuse and delight your nerve endings (and your nose) with tingle-inducing ingredients.
- Pain relieving ointment
- Provides superior relief for joint and muscle strains
- Non-staining ointment contains the strongest concentration of herbal ingredients
- Provide penetrating heat to muscles
- One application gives you fast, warm, comforting relief for joint and muscle pain, stiff muscles, arthritis in the hands and joints
