Since 1898.
That distinct smell isn't just nostalgia. It's methyl salicylate working.
The smell of relief. 125 years of arthritis and muscle pain answered. 3 oz cream.
Ships within 1 to 2 business days from our pharmacy. Free shipping on subscriptions and orders over $50.
The protocol.
- Apply a thin layer to painful area, up to 4 times daily
- Massage gently until absorbed
- Wash hands after application
- Do not apply with heating pads. The combination can cause burns.
Safe for. Use with caution.
Safe for
- Arthritis pain in knees, hands, shoulders, and back
- Localized muscle pain that does not respond to oral pain relievers
- Elderly patients who cannot tolerate oral NSAIDs
Use with caution
- Never apply with a heating pad. Methyl salicylate plus heat can cause skin burns.
- Avoid contact with eyes and broken skin.
- Do not use on children under 12.
This product is new to the shop. Verified customer reviews will appear here as they come in. Have a question before then? Ask Dr. Mike.
Complete the medicine cabinet.
Why this still exists at Fairview.
If you grew up in a Mississippi household where an elder had arthritis, you know this smell. The methyl salicylate in BenGay Original is a topical analgesic that absorbs through the skin and inhibits the same pain pathway as aspirin, but locally. The menthol creates an immediate warming sensation that redirects the pain signal. Together they provide relief that oral anti inflammatories often cannot match for localized joint and muscle pain.
BenGay Original has a higher methyl salicylate concentration than the newer sport versions. Customers who have tried both always come back to original. The original works harder.
BenGay Original has a higher methyl salicylate concentration than the newer sport versions. That is why customers come back to it. The active ingredient absorbs through the skin and inhibits the same pain pathway as aspirin, but locally at the joint. For arthritis patients who cannot tolerate oral NSAIDs, this is one of the most useful topical options I stock. Just never combine it with a heating pad. The combination causes skin burns.
Dr. Mike Acheampong, PharmD, MPH. Fairview Pharmacy, Hattiesburg, MS.
Questions, answered.
Is this the original formula, or a modern reformulation?
This is the original formulation. Fairview sources every heritage product direct from the manufacturer to confirm authenticity. We do not stock relabeled or reformulated alternatives. If you have been using this product for decades, this is the same one you remember.
How soon will my order ship?
Orders ship within 1 to 2 business days from our pharmacy in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. You will receive a tracking number once your package leaves the pharmacy. Free shipping on orders over $50.
What is your return policy?
Unopened products in their original sealed packaging can be returned within 30 days of delivery for a refund. For safety reasons, opened products are not returnable. If something arrives damaged or incorrect, contact us within 7 days and we will make it right.
Can I take this with my prescription medications?
Some heritage products, particularly the iron containing tonics and any product with alcohol, can interact with prescription medications. We strongly recommend a free pharmacist consultation before ordering if you take any prescription medication. Call or use the Ask the Pharmacist form on the site.
Is this safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Heritage remedies vary in pregnancy safety. Topical products like Bag Balm and Bactine are generally considered safe. Iron tonics and any product containing alcohol require physician guidance during pregnancy. Before ordering during pregnancy or breastfeeding, please request a free pharmacist consultation so we can review your specific product.
Build the medicine cabinet your family deserves.
Heritage remedies were never meant to stand alone. Most families build out their medicine cabinet across the four sub categories: cough and chest, pain and muscle, tonics, and skin and wound. Combine 3 to 4 products to clear the $50 free shipping threshold.