Bjr, I semi brisk walking and following a persistent pain in the right calf (perhaps I overlooked one day stretching) so I applied red tiger balm, and even if it does not completely rule problem is a fast pain relief. I apply the Tiger Balm massage well over quite a large area around the contracture before and after my walk, I am satisfied. we feel menthol, the smell does not bother me not, it's a good product.