Recently, wind oil has become a trending topic on Weibo, with posts claiming oral consumption can relieve sore throats being widely shared.So, can Tiger Balm be ingested? Below, we provide a detailed explanation: Is it safe to drink Tiger Balm? What are its effects and precautions?
Doctor: Though ingestible, avoid casual experimentation
Despite the cold weather reducing its regular use, Tiger Balm has recently become a "trending topic" on Weibo. Posts claiming oral consumption can alleviate sore throats have been widely shared.Can Tiger Balm Oil be ingested? Yesterday, our reporter investigated and found that while it is indeed possible to take it orally, experts do not recommend long-term use.
Tiger Balm Oil Can Be Taken Orally
"Did you know Tiger Balm Oil isn't just for topical use? Some netizens share that taking a few drops orally and swallowing slowly can effectively relieve sore throats." This Weibo post has recently garnered widespread attention and discussion.To investigate, a reporter purchased a bottle of wind oil. The outer packaging clearly states the usage instructions: "For external use, apply to affected areas. For oral use, take 4-6 drops at a time." Perhaps over the years, people have become accustomed to using wind oil externally, overlooking its oral application—or perhaps they never considered such a use at all.
It turns out that wind oil primarily consists of menthol, eucalyptus oil, clove powder, camphor, and aromatic oil, with liquid paraffin, chlorophyll, and flavoring as auxiliary ingredients. In the Lingnan region, there is a folk practice of ingesting wind oil to dispel wind.
Online research reveals that China Pharmaceutical News reported cases where wind oil effectively treated sore throats. Typically, five doses cure mild cases, while more severe cases may require additional days. Dosage: Take 2–3 drops (reduce for elderly or children) orally, swallowing slowly without water, five times daily.For redness and swelling in the throat, adding anti-inflammatory medication enhances effectiveness. How long does it take to recover?
Experts advise against long-term use
Although wind oil can be taken orally to treat conditions like sore throat, medical experts do not recommend prolonged use. "The camphor in wind oil has certain toxicity,""Dr. Zhou Kai, Director of the Nutrition Department at Ningbo Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, explained to reporters, "The instructions state it can be taken orally, which is based on pharmacological and pathological testing. However, there are now many oral medications available to treat sore throats and similar conditions that can completely replace wind oil. Clinically, doctors would not recommend patients take wind oil. The fact that netizens are asking this question now has a bit of a prank element to it. While it's not entirely wrong, it's best not to try it lightly."
The reporter also followed online instructions and directly ingested several drops of wind oil. The taste was bitter and astringent, extremely unpleasant. It felt like eating mustard, intensely irritating the mouth and nasal passages, nearly bringing tears to the eyes. While it does have a refreshing and invigorating effect, the sensation is highly unpleasant. For treating sore throats, it's best to seek medication from a hospital.
That concludes our discussion on whether wind oil essence is safe to drink, its effects, and precautions. We hope you now have a clearer understanding. Wishing you good health and happiness.