Today, most people think of Tiger Balm as an old-fashioned home remedy. But for those who grew up before the 1980s, it remains a trusted cure-all with a wide range of benefits.
First created in the 1870s in Burma by a Chinese herbalist, Aw Chu Kin, Tiger Balm has been used for generations across Asia and beyond. Its effectiveness comes from a unique blend of natural ingredients, including menthol, mint oil, clove oil, cajuput oil, and camphor.
Below are 19 practical uses of Tiger Balm that go far beyond the typical “muscle rub.”
Everyday Health Remedies
1. Relieves mosquito bites
Applying Tiger Balm directly to a mosquito bite soothes itching and irritation almost instantly.
2. Works as an insect repellent
Mosquitoes and wasps dislike its strong scent. Simply leave an open jar of Tiger Balm in the corners of your room, and insects will stay away.
3. Treats rheumatism and sore muscles
Massage the balm onto the lower back, legs, or stiff muscles to relieve rheumatic pain or muscle soreness.
4. Reduces perspiration odors
Regular application on problem areas can help neutralize unpleasant body odor.
5. Eases diarrhea
Rub a small amount around your navel, cover it with your palm for a few minutes, and allow the warmth to spread. For added relief, apply near the tailbone.
6. Soothes sore throats
Massage the balm around your neck before bedtime. Many find their sore throat eased by the next morning.
7. Relieves toothaches
Apply a little Tiger Balm to a cloth and gently rub it on the outside of the cheek near the aching tooth.
8. Calms minor burns
For small burns, lightly apply the balm to reduce pain and help prevent blisters.
9. Softens corns and calluses
Spread warmed balm directly onto corns on the feet to reduce discomfort over time.
10. Relieves headaches
Massage a small amount into your temples for quick relief from tension headaches.
11. Clears a stuffy nose
Dab a little under the nostrils to open nasal passages when you have a cold.
12. Helps with motion sickness
Apply directly to your lips to reduce nausea while traveling.
13. Relieves constipation
Massage onto the stomach area to stimulate digestion and ease discomfort.
14. Improves breathing during exercise
Athletes often apply it to the chest to open airways and reduce tightness during intense activity.
15. Warms cold feet
Massage into feet to boost circulation and keep them warm in cold weather.
Household and Practical Uses
16. Removes paint stains
Rub Tiger Balm onto paint-stained skin to dissolve the paint gently, without harsh chemicals.
17. Kills termites
Apply the balm into visible termite holes in wood or bamboo furniture to eliminate them.
18. Removes sticker residue
Rub a little onto stubborn sticker glue, then wipe clean.
19. Deodorizes shoe closets
Leave an open jar in your shoe cabinet to neutralize unpleasant odors.
Where to Buy Authentic Tiger Balm
Because counterfeit versions exist, it’s important to buy from reputable brands. The original and most trusted Tiger Balm comes from Singapore under the brand Haw Par. Despite its name, the balm contains no tiger-derived ingredients—only herbal oils and camphor.