First introduced to Vietnam during the 1960s, Eagle Brand Medicated Oil is also known as dầu xanh and is a popular household item within the Vietnamese community. Similar to Tiger Balm, it is considered a "cure-all" remedy for a myriad of issues, from headaches to stomach pains. Its eye-catching green color and strong rose oil aroma distinguishes the product from other medicated oils. The medicated oil gets its color from chlorophyll found in plants, giving the oil a natural green hue.
In 1935, the green oil was formulated by German chemist Wilhelm Hauffman. It was created for J Lea & Co, which was a trading house owned by Chinese merchant and philanthropist Tan Jim Lay. Under this company, the oil grew to dominate the medicated oil industry. In 1960, Lay's business associates joined his J Lea & Co, and on March 26, 1960, Borden Co., Pte Ltd was integrated to take over J Lea & Co. In the 1970s, it was planned to be manufactured in Vietnam, but the outbreak of the Vietnam War in 1975 brought a halt to the construction and execution of the manufacturing facility. The war, however, resulted in thousands of Vietnamese fleeing to North America, Europe, and Australia, opening up markets in these continents.
The green oil is used for temporarily relieving back pain, cough, joint pain, cramping, and many other common health symptoms. Its active ingredients are eucalyptus oil, menthol, and methyl salicylate. Eucalyptus oil gives the medicated oil soothing and anti-bacterial properties. It also clears the sinuses and supports the respiratory system. Menthol, an ingredient common in antiseptics, numbs the affected area with a cooling and warming sensation and thereby relieving discomfort. The methyl salicylate also gives the oil antiseptic properties, providing relief from aches and pains in muscles, tendons, and joints.
Every year, 6 million bottles of Eagle Brand Medicated Oil are manufactured and packaged. The product is endorsed by reputable health authorities such as the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Australia Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Eagle Brand also currently carries a range of therapeutic and pharmaceutical products, including the Green Balm, Yellow Balm, and Eucalyptus Oil. If you're ever feeling nauseous, Eagle Brand Medicated Oil is sold in 24 mL bottles, just enough to last for years in your medicine cabinet.
