Products
The original horse balms are, for example, “Strong Green Ointment ad. us. vet.” or “Green Gel ad. us. vet.” In the past, these veterinary medicines were also used in humans, an application for which they are not approved and which is not without problems. We recommend not to use these veterinary medicines in humans as a precaution. Today, however, horse balms intended for humans are commercially available. They are available in pharmacies and drugstores, among other places (e.g., Apotheker’s Original Horse Balm).
Structure and properties
The composition of horse ointments is inconsistent. Possible ingredients include, for example, camphor, menthol, salicylates (methyl salicylate), essential oils and plant extracts (e.g., arnica, rosemary).
Effects
Horse balms have analgesic, circulatory, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Fields of application
For the external treatment of pain, for example, muscle, joint and back pain.
Dosage
According to the directions for use. Products with camphor should not be applied to large areas.
Contraindications
Precautions depend on the individual composition of the products. Camphor is contraindicated in infants and young children and should be used with caution in older children.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include local skin reactions and hypersensitivity reactions.
