Zam-Buk
Health Benefits

Zam-Buk - Editor's Choice

| Modified on Aug 04, 2024
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Zam-Buk is a revered herbal ointment that has been a staple in South African households for over a century. Known for its vibrant green color and versatile healing properties, this inexpensive remedy is gaining popularity worldwide.

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First patented in 1902 by Charles Edward Fulford in Leeds, England, Zam-Buk quickly became a go-to herbal balm and antiseptic ointment. It's now known for treating a wide array of ailments, including:

  • Cuts and Bruises
  • Dry and Rough Skin
  • Sprains
  • Stomach Ulcers
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Colds and Coughs
  • Toothaches
  • Muscle Pain and Stiffness

How Zam-Buk Can Benefit You

Zam-Buk’s unique formula provides relief for various conditions, making it a must-have in any medicine cabinet. Here are some of its primary uses:

  • Itching and Pain Relief: Eases discomfort from insect bites, rashes, and minor injuries.
  • Skin Care: Treats rough elbows, chapped lips, and cracked heels.
  • Wound Healing: Promotes faster healing of cuts, burns, and abrasions.
  • Respiratory Relief: Helps alleviate symptoms of asthma, COPD, and sore throats.
  • Fungal Infections: Effective against toenail fungus and plantar warts.

Powerful Ingredients

Zam-Buk’s effectiveness lies in its potent natural ingredients:

  • Eucalyptus Oil (5.03 g): Known for its antiseptic properties, it treats insect bites, burns, cuts, and relieves muscle pain.
  • Thyme Oil (0.50 g): Used for scars, skin marks, acne, and coughs due to its antibacterial and antiseptic qualities.
  • Sassafras Oil (0.62 g): Traditionally used for gastrointestinal issues, colds, and skin eruptions.
  • Camphor (1.66 g): A terpene used to relieve pain, reduce itching, and treat fungal infections.

Potential Side Effects

While Zam-Buk is generally safe, some users may experience side effects. These can include:

  • Vomiting
  • Allergic reactions
  • Increased heart rate
  • Slowed breathing
  • Nausea and diarrhea
  • Increased perspiration and urination

Sassafras Oil Caution

Sassafras oil, though effective in small amounts, can cause toxicity if overused. Symptoms include abdominal pain, dizziness, hallucinations, low blood pressure, and potential liver damage. Pregnant women should avoid sassafras oil due to the risk of miscarriage.

Medication Interactions

Zam-Buk may interact with certain medications such as:

  • Aspirin
  • Diabetes medication
  • Ibuprofen
  • Omeprazole
  • Amitriptyline
  • Diclofenac
  • Lovastatin

Consult your physician before using Zam-Buk if you are on any of these medications.

Where to Buy Authentic Zam-Buk

Zam-Buk can be purchased online from retailers like Amazon and eBay. Be cautious, as different versions are available, including authentic South African Zam-Buk, a Thai version, and a UK version. The authentic South African product is distinguished by its unique smell and color.

Share Your Experience

Have you tried Zam-Buk? Share your feedback and read testimonials from other users on Earth Clinic below! Discover why this herbal ointment has been a trusted remedy for over 100 years.


The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.

Cure-All Ointment

Posted by Chris (CA) on 03/11/2019
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

As a South African living abroad now for over 20 years, I can attest to the need to have Zam Buk. It was always a part of the care kit at home when I was growing up and then became a must buy once we had moved and made trips back to SA. It is great for stings, sunburn, chapped lips, rough skin, cuts and “grass burns”. As a child, my son suffered with dry skin on his hands and my wife would cover his hands in Zam Buk and put him to sleep wearing cotton gloves and in the morning he would be sorted out. I have also tried the other versions and can safely say nothing beats the “real makoya “! For those of you wondering about the meaning and origin of the word Makoya, this may help: “The name Makoya hails from the townships in South Africa and is an informal term for the ‘Top Guru'. We want to be known as the trendsetter and we strive to be acknowledged as pioneers” – Kenny Malgas