Po Sum On vs Tiger Balm vs White Flower: Ingredients, Uses & How to Choose
Why compare these classics?
If you’re shopping for a fast-acting topical, you’ll quickly see the same three names: Po Sum On, Tiger Balm, and White Flower. They’re all time-tested, but the formulas, feel, and ideal use cases differ. Here’s a clear, side-by-side guide.
Ingredient profiles (what’s inside)
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Po Sum On (Oil/Balm): peppermint oil (menthol), cinnamon oil, dragon’s blood resin, baikal skullcap root, licorice root; absorbed in camellia oil. Warm-cool sensation without petrolatum.
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Tiger Balm (Extra/Red Ointment): camphor + menthol as actives, plus cajuput, cassia, clove, and mint oils in a petrolatum/paraffin base.
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White Flower Oil: menthol + methyl salicylate + camphor with eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint oils (clear liquid, strong minty-medicinal scent).
How they feel & smell
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Po Sum On: Herbaceous mint-cinnamon; oil absorbs quickly, balm has a smooth salve texture. Good for massage and layering into routines.
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Tiger Balm: Strong warming/cooling “balm” tingle; thicker ointment base that lingers (helpful for spot treatment).
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White Flower: Potent, penetrating mint-eucalyptus aroma; liquid that flashes cool and feels brisk on application.
Best for…
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Desk neck & tech-shoulder tension → Po Sum On oil or balm (glides well for short self-massage; balanced warm/cool).
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Post-workout hot spots → Tiger Balm (stays put with a stronger counterirritant kick).
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Sinus-y headaches / temple tightness → White Flower (brisk cooling; tiny dab goes far).
Sensitive skin & residues
If you dislike petrolatum or want a lighter after-feel, Po Sum On’s oil base absorbs faster. If you prefer a protective layer that stays put, Tiger Balm’s ointment base helps. White Flower is light but very strong, use sparingly.
Why many choose Po Sum On
Beyond menthol’s “cooling relief,” Po Sum On layers warming cinnamon oil and classic TCM botanicals:
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Dragon’s blood: traditionally used for wound healing & circulation.
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Baikal skullcap: studied for anti-inflammatory effects.
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Licorice root: harmonizing, soothing herb.
Looking for the lightest feel and a heritage herb blend? Try Po Sum On Medicated Oil or the new Healing Balm for travel-friendly relief.
Safety notes you should always read
No matter which you choose: external use only, avoid eyes/mucous membranes, don’t use on broken skin, and don’t bandage tightly or add heat pads. Stop if irritation occurs. Keep away from children. Some labels advise against use during pregnancy.
