Fengyoujing Essential Balm Oil (风油精) for Headaches, Dizziness, Insect Bites & Travel Sickness - 3ml/9ml

Fengyoujing Essential Balm Oil (风油精) is a traditional Chinese topical aromatic oil containing menthol, camphor, eucalyptus oil and methyl salicylate, applied externally for a cooling sensation on insect bites and to freshen the senses during travel. Sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK) in 3ml and 9ml bottles.

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults who want a cooling sensation on mosquito and insect bites in summer
• Travellers who like a refreshing aromatic oil to dab on temples or wrists on long journeys
• People who keep a classic Chinese household remedy in their first-aid kit or handbag
• Members of the Chinese diaspora in the UK looking for authentic 风油精 rather than an unfamiliar substitute

Not suitable for: infants and young children (camphor is unsuitable for them); pregnant or breastfeeding women unless a healthcare professional advises otherwise; anyone allergic to menthol, camphor, salicylates or any listed ingredient; broken, irritated or sunburnt skin; the eyes, mouth, nose and other mucous membranes.

How to use

1. Make sure the skin is clean, dry and intact.
2. Apply 1–2 drops to the affected area, such as the skin around an insect bite, and rub in gently.
3. For a refreshing effect during travel, dab a small amount on the temples or wrists, or simply inhale the aroma from the bottle. Keep away from the eyes.
4. Wash your hands after use, and do not exceed a few light applications per day.
5. Stop using it and rinse the area with water if any burning, itching or redness develops.

Frequently asked questions

What is Fengyoujing (风油精) used for?

Fengyoujing is a traditional Chinese aromatic balm oil applied externally for a cooling sensation, most commonly on insect bites, and inhaled or dabbed on the temples as a refreshing aroma during travel. It is a traditional household remedy rather than a licensed medicine, so it is not intended to treat any disease.

Where can I buy authentic 风油精 in the UK?

Ways Pharmacy stocks authentic Fengyoujing (风油精) imported in its original Chinese packaging, available in 3ml and 9ml bottles. As a GPhC-registered UK pharmacy, we can also answer questions about safe use.

Can I put Fengyoujing on a headache?

Many people traditionally dab a little on the temples for its cooling, aromatic feel. It is for external skin use and inhalation only and is not a substitute for pain relief medicine; if you have frequent or severe headaches, speak to a pharmacist or GP.

Is Fengyoujing safe for children?

No. Because it contains camphor and menthol, this product is not suitable for infants and young children, and it should be kept out of their reach. For children, ask a pharmacist about an age-appropriate alternative.

Can I use it for travel or motion sickness?

The cooling aroma is traditionally used to freshen the senses on long journeys, and some people find inhaling it helps with travel odours. It does not replace a licensed travel-sickness remedy — ask a pharmacist if you need one.

Safety & storage

• External use and inhalation only — do not swallow.
• Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, nose and other mucous membranes; do not apply to broken or irritated skin.
• Keep well out of the reach of children; camphor is hazardous if ingested.
• Discontinue and wash the area with water if burning, itching or redness occurs, and consult a pharmacist if needed.
• Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and open flame.

References

• NHS — Insect bites and stings
• NHS — Motion sickness

This product is supplied as a traditional Chinese aromatic external preparation. It is not a licensed medicine and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. For external use only. If symptoms persist or skin irritation develops, consult a pharmacist or GP.