How to Make Tiger Balm

Tiger Balm liniment has been used to relieve overworked and sore muscles for hundreds of years. It was originally used by Chinese healers and herbalists who used it to soothe the aching muscles of Chinese emperors. It's economical and easy to make, requiring only a few natural ingredients and a little of your time.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• 5 oz. beeswax, divided
• ½ cup mineral oil
• 1 tbsp. powdered ginger (optional)
• 2 tbsp. camphor
• 2 tbsp. lavender essential oil
• 2 tbsp. eucalyptus essential oil
• 3 tbsp. wintergreen essential oil
• 3 tbsp. peppermint essential oil
• 2.4 oz. menthol crystals
• Small metal or glass containers
• 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil
• 5 drops clove essential oil
• ¼ cup emu oil, coconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp. beeswax

Complex Tiger Balm

1. Combine 1 oz. of the beeswax and the mineral oil in a saucepan over low heat. Heat only until the beeswax melts. This is the jelly. Pour it into a container and set it aside.

2. Make an essential oil mix by combining the ginger (optional), camphor, lavender, eucalyptus, wintergreen and peppermint essential oils in a glass bottle or jar.

3. Combine the remaining beeswax, the menthol crystals and 1 oz. of the jelly over low heat. Stir it constantly and heat it only until the beeswax melts.

4. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes and then add 5 tbsp. of the essential oil mix, stirring until mixed well. Pour the Tiger Balm into the containers and allow it to cool completely.

Easy Tiger Balm

1. Heat the beeswax and emu, coconut or olive oil in a double boiler with the burner turned to low heat. Heat, stirring constantly, only until beeswax melts.

2. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the essential oils.

3. Pour the Tiger Balm into the containers and allow it to cool completely.

Tips & Warnings

• Add an ounce of cinnamon and cloves essential oils, if desired.

• Use adequate ventilation when preparing the Tiger Balm as the aroma of the warm beeswax, essential oils and camphor is powerful. A fan would be helpful.