14 amazing ways to use Tiger Balm
Many people think that Tiger Balm is a thing of the past. Grandpa used to use it, but now pills have taken the place of ointments, right? But Tiger Balm has been around for more than 100 years.
The original recipe was developed in 1870 by the Chinese botanist Aw Chu Kin and distributed in Singapore. No tigers were harmed in creating the ointment - it's actually comprised of menthol, camphor, cajeput oil, and several other essential oils as well as Vaseline. The name Tiger Balm traces back to the eldest son of the creator, Aw Boon Haw, which translates to 'tiger' in English. Here are 14 ways to use this versatile balm:
1. Mosquito bites
Did you get one of those itchy bites? No worries. Put a little Tiger Balm on it and your desire to scratch will disappear.
2. Insect repellent
Since Tiger Balm has such an intense, noticeable smell, it not only attracts the attention of humans, but also bugs. Insects don't like the smell at all and will stay away if they get a whiff. Try keeping an open jar nearby.
3. Body odor
If you have extreme body odor or smell of sweat, try rubbing a little Tiger Balm under your arms. The smell of menthol will neutralize any other odors.
4. Achy joints
If you're at the end of a long day and your joints are aching, don't fret, rub them with Tiger Balm. Not only is it natural, it also offers loads of relief.
5. Paint
If you are covered in paint after applying a fresh coat to your walls, try removing it with Tiger Balm. Just spread it on your hands and rub it off with a towel.
6. Pests
If you have a small invasion of pests in your wooden furniture, apply a little Tiger Balm and watch them run for cover.
7. Sore throat
Grab the Tiger Balm at the first signs of a scratchy throat. Put a little on your finger and rub it onto your throat. It will help you breathe clearly while sleeping and should help improve your pain by morning.
8. Stuffy nose
Tiger Balm contains a lot of menthol similar to the many other cold ointments out there. Try rubbing a little under your nose and breath in deeply. Note: Don't apply to the sensitive mucus membranes inside your nose.
9. Headache
This is a classic: Rub a little Tiger Balm on your temples. Not only will your headache disappear, you'll also feel refreshed for the rest of the day! Be careful to not get any of the balm in your eyes.
10. Achy feet
If your feet are sore and covered in calluses, try applying Tiger Balm to them. The menthol in the ointment helps stimulate circulation and may help lessen the pain.
11. Cold feet
Speaking of feet, if you tend to get cold feet in winter, Tiger Balm may be your lifesaver. As mentioned, Tiger Balm stimulates circulation which will warm up your feet. Positive side effect: Smelly feet shouldn't ever be an issue again.
12. Nausea
If you've just sat for 10 hours on a bus or plane and have that sick-to-your-stomach feeling, the essential oils present in Tiger Balm may help you to breath deeply and calm your system.
13. Fresh clothing and shoes
Every once in a while you can get that musty smell in your clothes or closet. Shoe racks and laundry rooms are particularly prone. Try placing an open jar of Tiger Balm in the closet and it will instantly smell like new thanks to the aromatic essential oils.
14. Stomach ache
Since Tiger Balm stimulates circulation and feels warm on the skin, it can be used if you have a stomach ache. Put a little around your belly button and let it soak in. It functions like a warming pad and will help soothe any belly pain.
Tiger Balm is really useful - no wonder it's stayed on the market for over 100 years. Next time you have a jar in your hands, you'll know how to use it.