Tiger Balm is a topical analgesic and antiseptic remedy made from natural herbal ingredients. Its popularity has spread all over the world, and it’s commonly used for relief of muscle aches, headaches, joint pain, congestion, and other minor ailments. The product was first developed in China in 1870 by Chinese herbalist Aw Chu Kin and his son Aw Boon Haw.
While the Tiger balm is beneficial, it has types that you can choose from according to your suitability. Let’s differentiate Red Tiger Balm vs White. When discussing the differences between red and white tiger balm, there are a couple of key aspects to consider.
What Is Red Tiger Balm:
What is Red Tiger Balm:
Red Tiger Balm is a traditional Chinese medicinal balm or ointment used to treat muscle and joint pain. This herbal remedy has been around for centuries, and is made of various herbs, spices and natural oils. Red Tiger Balm has a strong odor, which some people may find unpleasant. It is available in a variety of forms such as creams, gels and balms, offering relief from joint pain and stiffness.
What is White Tiger Balm:
White Tiger Balm is a modern adaptation of the traditional Chinese Red Tiger Balm. It is made from natural ingredients such as menthol, camphor and clove oil. White Tiger Balm does not have a strong odor like its predecessor, making it more pleasant for users to apply to their body. This balm has been known to provide relief from muscle fatigue and joint pain.
Composition of Red Tiger Balm and White Tiger Balm:
Composition of Red Tiger Balm:
Camphor: Camphor is derived from the wood of the camphor tree and has antiseptic, analgesic, anesthetic, and expectorant properties. It helps in relieving pain, swelling, and inflammation.
Menthol: Menthol is a natural ingredient derived from the mint plant. It has cooling and analgesic properties which can help reduce headaches, muscle pain, sprains and skin irritation.
Capsicum Frutescens: This is an extract from chili peppers which helps to reduce inflammation and pain. It can also improve circulation in the skin and can help relieve stiffness and soreness due to arthritis.
Clove Oil: Clove oil is derived from the buds of clove trees and has antiseptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. It is often used to treat headaches, toothache, and skin irritations.
Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which can help reduce inflammation and pain. It can also stimulate circulation in the skin and can help to relieve muscle aches.
Composition of White tiger Balm:
Camphor: Camphor is derived from the wood of the camphor tree and has antiseptic, analgesic, anesthetic, and expectorant properties. It helps in relieving pain, swelling, and inflammation.
Menthol: Menthol is a natural ingredient derived from the mint plant. It has cooling and analgesic properties which can help reduce headaches, muscle pain, sprains and skin irritation.
Cinnamon Oil: Cinnamon oil is derived from the bark of the cinnamon tree and has antiseptic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. It is often used to treat headaches, toothache, and skin irritations.
Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus oil is derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree and has antiseptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties. It can help to reduce inflammation and pain as well as clear congestion in the throat and lungs.
Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which can help reduce inflammation and pain. It can also stimulate circulation in the skin and can help to relieve muscle aches.
Uses of Red Tiger Balm and White Tiger Balm:
Use of Red tiger Balm:
Revail Pain:
Red tiger balm is known for its powerful pain-relieving effects. It can be applied to the skin or taken orally. Red tiger balm has been used for centuries to relieve headaches, muscle pain, and joint pain. It is also said to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
Reduce Stress:
Red tiger balm is said to have calming and soothing effects, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have also shown that it can help to improve mood and sleep quality.
Boost Immunity:
Red tiger balm is thought to help boost the immune system, helping to ward off colds and other illnesses.
Use of White Tiger Balm:
Treat Skin Conditions: White tiger balm is often used to soothe and treat minor skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and insect bites. It can also help to reduce itching and redness associated with these conditions.
Relieve Respiratory Symptoms: White tiger balm is known for its ability to relieve respiratory symptoms like congestion, coughing, and sneezing. It is often used as a natural remedy for colds, flu, and allergies.
Relax Muscles: White tiger balm is said to help relax tense muscles, reducing pain and soreness. It can be used on its own or with other treatments such as massage therapy.
Side Effects of Red and White Tiger Balm:
Red Tiger Balm:
- It can cause irritation, redness, and inflammation of the skin when applied topically.
- Overuse can also cause skin sensitivity, peeling, and even rashes.
- It also contains menthol which can produce a cooling sensation when applied to the skin – this might be too strong for those with sensitive skin.
White Tiger Balm:
- This topical balm is made up of camphor, eucalyptus oil, menthol, cajuput oil, and mint.
- It should be used cautiously as it can cause skin irritation if applied too often, particularly around the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- It also contains menthol which can produce a cooling sensation when applied to the skin – this might be too strong for those with sensitive skin.
Key Differences Between Red and White Tiger Balm
Color:
The most obvious difference between red and white tiger balm is the color. Red tiger balm is a bright, vibrant reddish-orange color due to the herbs used in its formulation. White tiger balm is a creamy off-white shade created from beeswax, camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil.
Smell:
Red tiger balm has a strong, spicy scent that some users find overpowering. White tiger balm is much milder, with a menthol-like aroma that may be more pleasant for users.
Temperature Sensitivity:
Red tiger balm will start to melt and thin out when exposed to higher temperatures due to its oil-based ingredients. White tiger balm is more resistant to heat and will remain in a solid state.
Ingredients:
Red tiger balm contains essential oils like clove, cajuput, menthol, cassia, and mint. White tiger balm has camphor, menthol, eucalyptus oil, and beeswax as its main ingredients.
Uses:
Red tiger balm is used to relieve pain from sore muscles, arthritis, sprains, and strains. White tiger balm is mostly used for chest congestion, colds, and other respiratory ailments. It can also provide temporary relief from headaches and sinus pressure.
Potency:
Due to its higher concentration of essential oils, red tiger balm has a stronger and more potent effect than white tiger balm. It’s important to use only a small amount at a time as it may cause discomfort if used in large quantities. White tiger balm is less potent so it can be used in larger amounts for a longer-lasting effect.
Conclusion:
Red tiger balm and White tiger balm offer different uses depending on the need. Red Tiger balm is ideal for pain relief, muscle pain, and arthritis while White Tiger balm is best used for temporary relief of minor aches and pains such as headaches and stomachaches. Both balms provide an instant cooling sensation when applied to the skin. Ultimately, both Red and White Tiger Balms can be incredibly beneficial in helping to relieve everyday aches, pains, and discomfort.