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Tiger Balm is often thought of as a post-gym staple or something reserved for sore backs and tired legs. But for many households, it quietly earns its place as a multi-purpose remedy used in far more ways than expected.

Thanks to its distinctive blend of menthol and camphor, Tiger Balm creates powerful warming or cooling sensations that can be used creatively — and safely — for a range of everyday discomforts.

Here are five lesser-known ways people commonly use Tiger Balm, beyond the obvious muscle rub.

1. For Screen-Related Headaches and Eye Strain

Long hours on laptops, phones and tablets can leave many people with tension headaches that start at the neck and creep upwards. In these cases, Tiger Balm is often used not on the head itself, but on the base of the neck, shoulders or temples.

The strong menthol aroma and cooling sensation can help:

• Ease tightness caused by prolonged screen use
• Encourage relaxation in the upper body
• Reduce the “band of pressure” feeling common with tension headaches

Only a very small amount is needed, and care should always be taken to keep it well away from the eyes.

2. To Help Clear a Blocked Nose at Night

When colds strike, sleep can become difficult due to congestion rather than pain. One lesser-known use of Tiger Balm is as a bedtime congestion aid.

Applied sparingly to:

• The chest
• The throat
• Or even a tissue placed near the pillow

The vapours released by menthol and camphor can create a sensation of clearer breathing, particularly at night when congestion often feels worse.

This is one reason Tiger Balm often ends up in travel bags and bedside drawers during winter months.

3. For Foot Fatigue After Long Days on the Go

Feet do a lot of work, especially on family days out, holidays involving lots of walking, or busy days spent standing. While calf and leg soreness gets most of the attention, foot fatigue is often overlooked.

A small amount of Tiger Balm massaged into:

• Soles
• Heels
• Arches

Can create a cooling, refreshing sensation that makes tired feet feel more comfortable. Many people use it as part of an evening wind-down routine before bed.

4. To Reduce the Urge to Scratch Insect Bites

Insect bites can be irritating rather than painful, and constant scratching can make them worse. While Tiger Balm is not designed specifically for bites, its cooling sensation can help distract from itching when applied carefully to unbroken skin.

For some people, this makes it easier to:

• Avoid scratching
• Reduce irritation
• Feel more comfortable during the day or at night

As with all topical products, it should never be used on broken or inflamed skin.

5. As a “Warm-Up” Aid Before Gentle Activity

While Tiger Balm is often associated with recovery, some people also use it before gentle activity such as walking, stretching or light exercise.

Applied lightly to areas prone to stiffness — such as knees, lower back or shoulders — it can create a warming sensation that helps the body feel more ready to move. This is particularly common first thing in the morning or after long periods of sitting.

It’s important not to overapply, as heat can intensify once movement begins.

Why These Uses Work

Tiger Balm doesn’t treat underlying conditions, but it works by stimulating nerve endings in the skin. This creates warming or cooling sensations that temporarily override discomfort signals, helping the body feel more at ease.

That sensory effect is what makes it useful in such a wide range of situations — from tension and congestion to fatigue and itchiness.

A Few Important Safety Notes

• Always apply to clean, unbroken skin
• Use sparingly — a little goes a long way
• Wash hands after use
• Avoid eyes, mouth and sensitive areas
• Check age guidance on specific products before using on children

If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, Tiger Balm should not replace medical advice.

Why Tiger Balm Remains a Household Staple

What keeps Tiger Balm relevant isn’t novelty, but versatility. Its ability to support comfort in small, everyday ways — often beyond its most obvious use — is why it continues to be passed down through generations.

For many families, it’s not a miracle cure, but a reliable, familiar product that quietly helps with the niggles of daily life.