The use of herbs in Thai medicine has been a large foundation of the healthcare in Thailand for thousands of years, and although more modern and western medicine is more prevalent and is standard practice in this country, herbal products still have their niche in Thai health.
When I first picked up one of these herbal compresses, the smell immediately reminded me of two smells I am used to. When thinking about Thai products, it smelled like the sniffing salts and herbs that can be found in most stores in Thailand that are used to promote wakefulness and reduce things like vertigo and nausea. When thinking about common products in the United States, the herbal product reminded me of Bengay cream, Tiger Balm, and even the cooling properties of the Icy Hot products.
The herbal compress has been used for over 200 years in Thailand as a massage technique to reduce pain and inflammation as well as improve circulation. What is extremely interesting is that despite their long history of use, what they're made out of is very similar to modern topical preparations for inflammation and pain.
Tumeric, camphor, Indian privet, tamarind, lemongrass, and ginger are some of the ingredients in the compress and have varying properties known to be anti-inflammatory, strong antioxidants, reduce pain and swelling, help fight bacteria and free radicals on the skin, and produce an aroma that can relief headaches, nausea, and relax the user.
Similar to products in the United States that contain either methylsalicylaye, camphor, menthol, mint, cinnamon, clove oil, or a combination of them produce similar if not identical effects.
The herbal compress is steamed or microwaved prior to use and can be used several times before the strength in the herbs start to weaken and break down.
Having made our own, I am excited to use this product to help relieve aches and pains post workouts and experience this aspect of Thai medicine!
-Natalie Underdown
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