Guide · Yado Market Blog
Victago pommade is the little jar of herbal balm many of us grew up with. It was always in mum's bag, in the car and in the drawer next to the bed. Some people call it Victago ointment or Victago cream, and plenty of people search for it as "Vitago". It is the same small jar of pommade.
Quick answer: what is Victago pommade?
A West African herbal balm in a small jar, with a strong, fresh aroma. Families use it for a gentle massage on the shoulders, neck, back, arms or legs. It is for external use only.
At a glance
- PriceSmall $2.50 · Medium $4.99 · Large $9.99
- SmellStrong, fresh herbal aroma
- Use it forA gentle massage on shoulders, neck, back
- NoteExternal use only
- Get itChicago pickup, local delivery or shipping
3 sizes
Small, Medium, Large · $2.50 to $9.99
Herbal
Balm with a fresh aroma
Pocket size
Fits a bag or travel kit
Chicago
Pickup at 1651 E 87th St
Know your balm
What Is Victago Pommade?
Victago is a West African herbal balm. In French-speaking countries, a balm like this is called a pommade, so that is the name on the jar. It is smooth, easy to rub in and has a strong herbal scent that many people remember from home.
The Victago name comes in two forms:
Victago Pommade
The classic balm in a small jar. Comes in Small, Medium and Large sizes.
Victago Liquide
A herbal massage oil in a bottle, for people who prefer an oil to a balm. See Victago Liquide.
A family tradition
The Jar That Was Always in Mum's Bag
In many West African homes, pommade was always close by. It was tucked in a mother's handbag, kept in a kitchen drawer or stored next to the family bed.
After a long day at school, on the farm or at a community event, a parent would warm a little pommade between their hands and give a slow massage to the shoulders or back. The familiar scent filled the room. It felt like care.
Today, families in the diaspora keep that small ritual going. One sniff of the open jar and you are back home.
Step by step
How to Use Victago Pommade
A little goes a long way. Always follow the directions on the package.
1. Test
Try a small amount on your inner arm first and wait to check for skin sensitivity.
2. Take a little
Scoop a small amount onto clean fingertips.
3. Massage
Rub it gently into the shoulders, neck, back, arms or legs until absorbed.
4. Wash
Wash your hands after use. Keep the balm away from the eyes, mouth, nose and broken skin.
5. Follow the label
Check the package directions for how often to use it.
Compare
Victago Pommade vs. Vicks and Other Balms
People often ask if Victago is the same as Vicks. It is not. Both are aromatic balms you rub onto the skin, but they are different brands with different formulas.
Victago pommade
A West African brand with its own herbal blend and a strong, fresh scent.
Vicks
An American brand of aromatic rub. A separate product with its own formula.
Other African balms
Many families have a favorite balm from home. Each one has its own ingredients, so read the label.
Good to know
Is Victago Pommade Safe? Precautions
Like any herbal balm, Victago should be used with a little care:
External use only
Use it on the skin only. Never swallow it.
Patch test first
Try a small amount on your inner arm. Stop using it if your skin gets irritated.
Keep away from
The eyes, mouth, nose and broken skin.
Ask your doctor first
If you are pregnant or nursing, or before using it on children under 12.
Store it safely
Close the jar and keep it in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children.
Shop Yado Market
Where to Buy Victago Pommade in the USA
You can find Victago at Yado African & Caribbean Market, online and in our Chicago store.
Our pick
Victago Pommade
The classic herbal massage balm. Small jar $2.50, Large jar $9.99.
Shop · from $2.50
The oil version
Victago Liquide
Herbal massage oil in a bottle, for people who prefer an oil.
Shop · $5.00- Pick up at our Chicago store, 1651 E 87th St
- Local delivery around Chicago, or shipped anywhere in the U.S.
- Add your African and Caribbean groceries to the same order
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Victago pommade?
Victago is a West African herbal balm (pommade) sold in a small jar. Families traditionally use it for massage and for its aroma.
How do you use Victago pommade?
Apply a small amount to the skin and massage it in gently until absorbed. Use it on the skin only, never in the eyes, mouth or on broken skin, and follow the package directions.
Is Victago the same as Vicks?
No. Both are aromatic balms, but Victago is a separate West African brand with its own herbal formula.
Is Victago safe for everyone?
It is for external use only. Do a patch test first. Ask your doctor before use if you are pregnant or nursing, or before using it on children under 12. Stop using it if your skin gets irritated.
Where can I buy Victago pommade in the USA?
At Yado African & Caribbean Market. Order online for shipping anywhere in the U.S., or pick it up at our Chicago store, 1651 E 87th St.
Bring Home the Jar You Grew Up With
Keep a jar of Victago pommade in your bag, your car and by the bed, just like at home. Small or Large, pickup in Chicago or shipped to your door.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Victago pommade is for external use only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.