Mentisan Care Balm for the Nose

Mentisan is a legendary care balm originally from Bolivia, where it has been a household staple for over 80 years. It was invented in 1938 by Ernesto Schilling, a German immigrant who founded Laboratorios INTI S.A. in La Paz. The name 'Mentisan' is derived from the Spanish words 'menta' (mint) and 'sanar' (to heal).

While the original formula is used as a multipurpose ointment for everything from muscle pain to insect bites, the specific version shown is the 'Pflegebalsam für die Nase' (Care Balm for the Nose), tailored for the European market, particularly Germany, where it is sold in drugstores like dm. It contains a blend of essential oils including eucalyptus, pine, sage, and menthol, designed to soothe dry or irritated skin around the nose.

The product continues to be manufactured in Bolivia by Laboratorios INTI S.A., which remains the ultimate owner and manufacturer. The company is one of the largest pharmaceutical firms in Bolivia and maintains its headquarters in La Paz.