Is Feng You Jing effective for rhinitis?

Jul 26, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I suffer from severe rhinitis. A friend told me that Tiger Balm is effective for rhinitis, and I have plenty of it at home. Is Tiger Balm actually effective for rhinitis?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Gang
It is ineffective and may instead damage the nasal mucosa, worsening rhinitis symptoms and causing greater discomfort to the patient. Therefore, it cannot be used as a treatment for rhinitis; it is only suitable for external use—such as for treating mosquito or insect bites during summer. For rhinitis management, physiological saline nasal irrigation is recommended, along with medications specifically indicated for rhinitis—including traditional Chinese patent medicines like Tongqiao Biyan Pills. During treatment, patients should also take precautions to prevent common colds.