For years, petroleum jelly has been painted as the “bad guy” in natural health circles. We’ve received countless phone calls, emails and messages over the years asking why we use it in Ramedica – our natural pain relief balm. People worry it’s toxic, synthetic, or nothing more than a cheap filler. But the truth is far more interesting — and reassuring.
In fact, petroleum jelly has been around for nearly 150 years, and dermatologists still recommend it as one of the most trusted remedies today. So why the bad reputation? Let’s take a closer look.
A Brief History of Petroleum Jelly
The story begins in 1859, when workers on America’s first oil rigs noticed a waxy substance collecting on their equipment. They called it “Rod Wax” and quickly realised it had an unexpected benefit — it seemed to help cuts and burns heal faster. Imagine the first worker to test that theory!
A chemist named Robert Chesebrough took note. He refined the substance, experimented with it, and eventually patented it under the name we know today: petroleum jelly.
But the story goes even deeper. Historical accounts suggest that Native Americans had already been using naturally occurring forms of petroleum for skin protection and healing long before the oil boom. Oil pits dating back to the 1400s in Pennsylvania show just how long this resource has been known.
From “Rod Wax” to Modern Skincare Essential
Health authorities worldwide recognise petroleum jelly as a safe and effective skin protectant. The FDA, Health Canada, and the European Union all approve pharmaceutical-grade petrolatum for human use.
Far from being a crude oil by-product, pharmaceutical-grade petroleum jelly is highly refined:
It’s purified to remove impurities.
It forms a protective barrier on the skin.
It locks in moisture, preventing water loss.
It shields against environmental irritants.
This is why dermatologists still recommend it today, especially for dry, irritated, or healing skin.
Petroleum vs. Petrolatum vs. Soft White Paraffin
This is where the confusion often starts.
Petroleum is the raw, black crude oil that comes out of the ground.
Petrolatum (petroleum jelly) is the refined, purified form that’s safe for skin use.
Soft White Paraffin is the official name for pharmaceutical-grade petrolatum you’ll see on our Ramedica Herbal Wonder Balm label.
In other words: when you see Soft White Paraffin listed as an ingredient, that’s simply the regulated, highly refined version of petroleum jelly. It’s approved by the FDA, Health Canada, and the EU, and recognised as safe, protective, and effective.
Why We Use It in Ramedica Pain Relief Balm
We chose pharmaceutical-grade petrolatum for three simple reasons:
Safety → It’s recognised as safe by every major health authority.
Effectiveness → It helps deliver and lock in botanicals like camphor, menthol, eucalyptus, and peppermint deeper into the skin where they can work best.
Protection → It creates a barrier that keeps skin hydrated and shields it from further irritation.
So, contrary to mainstream belief, it’s not a “cheap filler.” It’s an integral part of what makes our natural pain relief balm effective.
Let’s Talk About It
We know petroleum jelly sparks conversation. Some people still hesitate because of old myths and misinformation.
👉 What myths have you heard about petroleum jelly? Scroll down and leave a comment below.
Ready to Feel the Difference?
👉 Experience the powerful relief for yourself — order Ramedica Herbal Wonder Balm today.
