Femme appliquant du baume du tigre rouge sur son cou pour soulager une douleur musculaire.

Tiger Balm Red or White Use Advice

Tiger Balm: Uses, differences between red and white, and practical advice

Tiger Balm is an ancient wellness solution, recognized worldwide for its effectiveness and unique fragrance. Drawn from the wisdom of traditional Asian medicine, this balm has become a staple in many homes to soothe a variety of everyday ailments. Whether you're looking to understand the nuances between Red and White Tiger Balm, master its optimal use , or get practical tips for incorporating it into your skincare routine, this comprehensive guide is for you. We'll explore in detail its components, its multiple applications, and how the amazing 4-product Tiger Balm® Discovery Set can enrich your experience.

Excellence at your fingertips: The Discovery Box of 4 Tiger Balm® products

For a comprehensive exploration of the benefits of Tiger Balm and to benefit from its versatility, the Tiger Balm® 4-product Discovery Set is a privileged invitation. This carefully curated set offers you the unique opportunity to test several of the brand's signature formulations. It's the ideal way to discover which product is best suited to each specific situation, whether for relaxation, sports preparation, or easing tension.

This set not only makes a great introduction to the range for new users, but also a thoughtful and unique gift for loved ones, synonymous with care and tradition. Each product included embodies Tiger Balm®'s commitment to quality and authenticity, continuing a legacy of natural wellness.

Explore the Discovery Box now

Dive into the heart of Tiger Balm: A legacy of natural well-being

Tiger Balm is more than just an ointment; it's a symbol of natural, effective relief. Its reputation has been built on decades of successful use around the world, thanks to a unique formulation that combines natural ingredients with proven properties. Before delving into the specifics of the Red and White versions, it's essential to understand the foundations of its effectiveness.

The Synergy of Active Ingredients: The secret of a legendary formula

The remarkable effectiveness of Tiger Balm comes from the harmonious interaction of its active ingredients, primarily essential oils and plant extracts carefully selected for their therapeutic properties. Each ingredient plays a specific role, and their combination creates a powerful synergistic effect to soothe and comfort.

Camphor: Dual heating and cooling action

Camphor is a central ingredient in Tiger Balm. It acts as a counterirritant: when applied to the skin, it first induces a sensation of warmth, followed by a wave of soothing coolness. This mechanism helps distract from pain signals, providing noticeable relief. Camphor is also a rubefacient, meaning it stimulates blood circulation in the area of ​​application. This increased blood flow promotes better tissue oxygenation and can help speed up the body's natural recovery processes, making this ingredient valuable for tired or sore muscles.

Cajuput Oil and Cassia Oil (exclusive to Red Tiger Balm): Stimulating warmth

Cajuput oil and cassia oil (a variety of cinnamon) are distinctive components of Tiger Balm Red, giving it its characteristic warming sensation. Cajuput oil, with its fresh and powerful scent, is traditionally used for its invigorating and stimulating properties. Cassia oil, on the other hand, generates an intense and penetrating heat. Together, these oils create a deep warming effect, ideal for relaxing tense muscles, relieving stiffness, and preparing the body for physical activity.

Clove Oil: Localized soothing

Clove oil is a powerful aromatic essence, rich in eugenol, a compound known for its local anesthetic properties. Its distinctive, spicy scent is iconic. In Tiger Balm, it contributes to the soothing effect by providing temporary local pain relief. This is a major asset for rapid, targeted action on sensitive areas.

Peppermint Oil and Menthol: Wave of Analgesic Freshness

Menthol , extracted primarily from peppermint oil, is known for its intense, invigorating cooling sensation. It works by dilating superficial blood vessels, which creates this cooling effect and contributes to a temporary analgesic effect. This coolness is particularly appreciated for soothing headaches, itching caused by insect bites, or for a feeling of lightness and well-being after exercise.

Red Tiger Balm: The ideal ally for muscles and joints

Red Tiger Balm is the best-known variant for its powerful heating action. It is particularly recommended for relieving intense muscle pain, aches, contractures, and joint stiffness. Its formula, enriched with cassia oil and cajuput oil, generates a deep heat that promotes muscle relaxation and improves local blood circulation. It is an excellent choice for warming up before exercise, helping to prepare muscles and prevent injuries, or after intense physical activity to facilitate recovery.

Its rubefacient effect is also beneficial for soothing chronic rheumatic pain. It is often used in massage to relieve tension and provide lasting comfort. Its characteristic red color comes from its natural ingredients and generally does not stain if applied correctly and in small amounts.

Indicative composition of Red Tiger Balm:
  • Camphor: 25.0%
  • Menthol: 10%
  • Cajeput oil: 7%
  • Mentholated oil (dementholized mint oil): 6%
  • Clove Oil: 5%
  • Cassia Oil: 5%
  • Paraffin and Petrolatum (base)

White Tiger Balm: Refreshing softness for daily relief

White Tiger Balm is distinguished by its milder, primarily cooling sensation. Its formulation contains a higher proportion of menthol and eucalyptus oil, and it is free of cassia oil, which explains its white color and less intensely heating effect than the red version. It is ideal for headaches and mild migraines (applied in small touches to the temples, forehead, and neck), for clearing the airways in case of colds or nasal congestion (applied to the chest or inhaled), and for calming the itching caused by insect bites.

Its texture is often perceived as slightly less greasy, and it has the advantage of not staining clothes, making it very practical for discreet use in the office or on the go. Its minty, fresh scent provides an invigorating and soothing sensation. It is also appreciated for relieving mild muscle pain in people who prefer a cool effect to a warm one.

Indicative composition of White Tiger Balm:
  • Camphor: 25.0%
  • Menthol: 8.0%
  • Eucalyptus Oil: 13.7%
  • Clove Oil: 1.43%
  • Paraffin and Petrolatum (base)

Key Differences Between Red and White Tiger Balm: Which One to Choose?

The choice between Red Tiger Balm and White Tiger Balm will essentially depend on the nature of your need and the sensation you are looking for:

  • Sensation: Red provides a feeling of intense and lasting warmth, while White offers a predominant feeling of coolness.
  • Main indications:
    • Red Balm: Ideal for deep muscle pain, aches, arthritis, rheumatic pain, contractures, and for sports warm-ups.
    • White Balm: Perfect for headaches, migraines, nasal congestion, colds, insect bites, and minor muscle aches where a cooling effect is desired.
  • Composition: The major difference lies in the presence of cassia oil and a higher concentration of cajuput oil in the Red, and a greater proportion of eucalyptus oil in the White.
  • Practicality: White does not stain clothing, which can be an advantage for daytime use.

It is entirely possible, and even common, to have both versions on hand to meet different needs over time.

Uses and Practical Advice for Tiger Balm

To get the most out of Tiger Balm's benefits, proper application is crucial. Here are our practical tips for optimal and safe use, focused on relief and well-being.

General Application Tips

Whichever version you choose, take a small amount of balm (about the size of a pea) with your fingertips. Apply directly to the affected area. Gently massage in circular motions until the product is completely absorbed into the skin. This massage not only facilitates the penetration of the active ingredients but also stimulates local blood circulation, amplifying the balm's beneficial effects. A sensation of warmth (for the Red) or coolness (for the White) should be felt quickly. You can repeat the application 2 to 3 times a day if needed.

Use for muscle and joint pain

For muscle tension, aches, or joint pain, Red Tiger Balm is often favored for its warming effect. Apply to the sore area and massage for a few minutes. For added relaxation, apply the balm after a warm bath or shower, when skin pores are open, which promotes better absorption.

Tips for Headaches and Congestion

White Tiger Balm is particularly effective for headaches or tension headaches. Apply a small amount to your temples (away from your eyes), forehead, and back of your neck. Massage in gently. For nasal congestion, apply a small amount of White Balm to your chest or under your nose (without direct contact with your nostrils) to help clear your airways by inhaling the menthol and eucalyptus vapors.

Soothing insect bites

White Tiger Balm is an excellent remedy for quickly relieving the itching and irritation caused by mosquito or other insect bites. Apply a thin layer directly to the bite. The cooling effect of menthol and camphor calms the urge to scratch.

Sports preparation and recovery

Athletes can incorporate Tiger Balm into their routine. Applied before exercise with a vigorous massage, Red Balm helps warm up muscles and prepare them for activity. After exercise, a massage with Red Balm (for relaxing warmth) or White Balm (for restorative coolness) can help reduce muscle fatigue and prevent muscle soreness.

Explore the extended Tiger Balm® range: Complementary solutions

The Tiger Balm® family is not limited to the traditional Red and White jars. Other formulations have been developed to offer targeted and practical solutions, some of which are included in the Tiger Balm® 4-product Discovery Box .

LOTION / TIGER OIL: Fluidity for extended application

Tiger Lotion or Tiger Oil comes in a liquid form, making it ideal for application to larger areas of the body, such as the back, legs, or shoulders. Its fluid texture absorbs quickly and leaves no excessive greasy residue. It's perfect for a relaxing massage or a quick application to soothe tired muscles. Its composition, often including methyl salicylate, makes it an excellent choice for analgesic action on large areas.

Indicative composition of the TIGER LOTION / OIL:
  • Methyl salicylate: 38% (topical analgesic)
  • Camphor: 15%
  • Menthol: 8% (topical analgesic)
  • Eucalyptus oil: 6%
  • Spicy lavender oil: 5%
  • Light mineral oil to complete 100%

The addition of lavender oil adds a pleasant aromatic dimension, promoting relaxation. It's a very practical alternative for those seeking the effectiveness of Tiger Balm with increased ease of application.

SPECIAL MUSCLE OINTMENT: Targeted care for active ingredients

Tiger Balm Muscle Rub (often referred to as "Tiger Balm Muscle Rub") is a non-greasy formula specifically designed for the needs of athletes and active lifestyles. It aims to soothe post-exercise muscle pain, soreness, and cramps. It provides a pleasant sensation, prepares muscles for activity, and supports their recovery. It typically contains methyl salicylate, known for its analgesic properties, in synergy with menthol and camphor.

Indicative composition of SPECIAL MUSCLE OINTMENT:
  • Methyl Salicylate: 15%
  • Menthol: 5%
  • Camphor: 3%
  • Non-greasy ointment base for quick absorption.

This ointment is an excellent addition for a targeted massage on stressed areas after a workout or a physically demanding day. It naturally finds its place in any gym bag.

The Tiger Balm® Discovery Box: The ultimate experience and an inspired gift idea

The Tiger Balm® 4-Product Discovery Set we've introduced is a great way to experience the diversity and richness of the Tiger Balm® range. By bringing together several flagship products, such as the Red Balm, the White Balm, and potentially the Special Muscle Lotion or Ointment, this set ensures you always have the most appropriate solution at hand, whatever your need.

This is the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to the many facets of Tiger Balm or to introduce these wellness treasures to those around you. Giving this gift set means sharing a legacy of natural care, a promise of relief and comfort. A thoughtful gesture that will surely be appreciated by anyone who values ​​authentic and effective self-care solutions.

Explore the Tiger Balm® Discovery Box in detail

Discover other products from the same collection: A world of well-being to explore

At Siam Marketplace, our passion for Asian-inspired wellness extends beyond Tiger Balm. We invite you to discover an extensive selection of balms and skincare products that share this philosophy of naturalness and effectiveness. If the virtues of Tiger Balm have won you over, these other treasures will also delight you.

Red Tiger Balm 30g

Authenticity in its purest form. Tiger Balm Red, with its warming and powerful formula, is your best ally for relaxing tense muscles and preparing your body for action.

View this product

White Tiger Balm 30g

Soothing freshness for everyday use. White Tiger Balm is perfect for headaches and insect bites, providing an invigorating sensation without the risk of staining your clothes.

View this product

Genuine Tiger Balm Soft 25g Haw Par Tiger Balm®

A caress of softness. This Soft version of Tiger Balm, enriched with lavender, is designed for a relaxing massage and a moment of pure olfactory and physical relaxation.

View this product

Thai Red Balm with Red Chili and Mint 50g

The intensity of red chili pepper combined with the freshness of mint. This Thai balm provides deep warmth for stressed muscles and joints.

View this product

Wangphrom Green Balm with Refreshing Essential Oils 50g

Wangphrom Green Balm, formulated with Barleria Lupulina, provides a unique cooling sensation, ideal for relaxation, calming and overall well-being.

View this product

Wangphrom Yellow Thai Balm 50g

A traditional Thai herbal massage balm. Its yellow formula is known to relieve pain and provide a deeply relaxing aromatherapy experience.

View this product

Wangphrom Violet Refreshing Balm 50g Lemongrass

Let yourself be transported by the freshness of lemongrass with this Wangphrom purple balm. Excellent as an anti-itch and natural repellent, it also provides an invigorating sensation.

View this product

Wangphrom Rose Refreshing Balm 50g Ginger and Patchouli

A delicate balance of stimulating ginger and soothing patchouli, this Wangphrom rose balm is ideal for relieving stuffy noses and feelings of dizziness, with a floral note.

View this product

Wangphrom Blue Balm with Refreshing Essential Oils 50g Clove

All the power of clove in a refreshing blue balm. Wangphrom Blue is perfect for soothing various aches and pains and pleasantly clearing the airways.

View this product

Golden Cup Balm Traditional Thai Medicine

Another pillar of traditional Thai medicine, Golden Cup Balm is renowned for its effectiveness on a wide range of minor ailments, from muscle pain to stings.

View this product

Monkey Balm Monkey Balm 12g

Compact and powerful, Monkey Balm is an ideal travel companion. Its concentrated formula provides fast relief from pain and itching, wherever you are.

View this product

Mentholatum 28g/85g - 35% Menthol Decongestant Analgesic Ointment

A highly concentrated menthol formula for intense decongestant and analgesic action. Mentholatum is a valuable support during cold weather.

View this product

Siang Pure Formula I Balm 12g Red Pain Relief

Siang Pure Red Balm is another renowned Thai reference, offering a warming sensation to effectively soothe muscle and joint pain.

View this product

Siang Pure Formula II White Pain Relief Balm

The white version of Siang Pure Balm, for a cooler and more soothing sensation. Perfect for headaches, congestion, and relief of mild tension.

View this product

Phoyok Thai Green Herbal Balm 100% Natural 50g

Dive into naturalness with Phoyok Green Balm. A 100% plant-based composition for gentle and respectful relief, ideal for relaxing and beneficial massages.

View this product

Tiger Balm Hot Patch

The targeted benefits of Tiger Balm in the form of a heating patch. Practical and discreet, it diffuses continuous heat to relieve localized pain for several hours.

View this product

Tiger Balm Cold Patch Large Size 10 x 14 cm

The cooling, targeted relief of Tiger Balm in a large size. This cold patch is perfect for soothing inflammation, sprains, and bruises over large areas.

View this product

Tiger Balm Special Back Patch

Designed specifically to fit the contours of the back, this Tiger Balm patch releases its active ingredients for targeted and prolonged relief from back and lower back pain.

View this product

Tiger Balm Red & White Duo Pack 30g

All the essentials at your fingertips! This duo pack offers you the best of both worlds: the comforting warmth of Red Balm and the soothing freshness of White Balm to prepare for any eventuality.

View this product

Our customers' opinions on Tiger Balm®: Testimonials that speak for themselves

Our customers' trust and satisfaction are our greatest reward. Tiger Balm has won the hearts of many users thanks to its consistent effectiveness. Here are some testimonials:

Share your experience! We'd love to hear your thoughts on Tiger Balm.

Your experience with Tiger Balm is invaluable! Whether you use the Red Balm, the White Balm, or other products in the range, your feedback can help others discover these wellness solutions and make the best choice for their needs.

We strongly encourage you to leave a comment below or directly on the product pages of our website. Tell us how Tiger Balm has improved your daily life!

Explore the Siam Marketplace universe: Your gateway to traditional wellness

Tiger Balm is a magnificent illustration of the wellness treasures that Siam Marketplace strives to offer you. Our commitment is to select natural and traditional products that add real value to your daily life.

Visit our website

We also invite you to browse our other collections, just as rich in discoveries:

Thank you for reading this detailed guide. We hope it has provided valuable insights and helpful tips for incorporating Tiger Balm into your wellness routine. Take care of yourself with the wonders that nature and tradition, selected by Siam Marketplace, have to offer!

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.