Asian balms such as White Tiger Balm, Red Tiger Balm, Thai Golden Cup Balm, and heaps more are now selling incredibly well in the West, and for good reason too.
These topical balms are designed to be applied directly to the skin where they can provide numerous health benefits, helping with a whole variety of different ailments from headaches and migraines to sore muscles and trouble breathing.
One key ingredient which you will find in the vast majority of these balms is Methyl Salicylate, which we’re going to be looking at today.
Here’s a look at your ultimate guide to Methyl Salicylate.
What is Methyl Salicylate?
What are the benefits of methyl salicylate?
Pain relief
Many of the topical ointments and balms containing Methyl Salicylate, such as White Tiger Balm for example, provide noticeable pain relief when applied to a painful area of the body.
The main reason for this is that Methyl Salicylate contains an active ingredient which is very similar to aspirin. This helps to neutralize pain and discomfort, making it a very effective pain-relieving ingredient.
Anti-inflammatory
Wintergreen oil, AKA methyl salicylate, also functions as a potent anti-inflammatory which again is part of the reason why it helps to fight pain and discomfort.
If you’re suffering with a painful rash, sore muscles, or general swelling, methyl salicylate can get to work instantly on easing inflammation.
Anti-bacterial
Another key benefit of methyl salicylate is the fact that it serves as a powerful anti-bacterial agent, making it great when applied to open wounds and insect bites, as this allows it to prevent infection and keep wounds, bites, and injuries sterile.
Methyl salicylate is also often found in toothpaste and dental products, due to the fact that it is such a potent anti-bacterial agent, meaning it can help to neutralize harmful bacteria found in the oral cavity.