Jules Bengué

Laboratoires Bengué was a French pharmaceutical company founded in 1891 by Dr. Jules Bengué. The company is globally recognized for the invention of Baume Bengué, the first topical analgesic balm utilizing menthol and methyl salicylate. This product was later introduced to the United States and became the household brand Bengay. The firm specialized in treatments for rheumatism, gout, and neuralgia, focusing on topical delivery systems. Over the decades, the company's assets were integrated into larger pharmaceutical portfolios, starting with Warner-Lambert and eventually Pfizer. Today, the legacy of Jules Bengué's research is maintained by Kenvue, which continues to market the Bengay product line. The company's work laid the foundation for modern over-the-counter topical pain relief.