Vicks VapoRub

Vicks VapoRub is a versatile mentholated ointment that has been around for more than 125 years. It was originally formulated by North Carolina pharmacist Lunsford Richardson to treat his son’s croup. Let’s explore some of its uses and benefits:

1. Relieving Congestion:
   • Vicks VapoRub doesn’t directly act as a decongestant, but its strong menthol and camphor vapors create a cooling sensation in your nasal passages. This triggers receptors in your brain, making you feel like you’re breathing more openly. A 2017 study found that using VapoRub can improve subjective sleep quality in adult cold patients1.
   • To use it for congestion relief, rub a layer of Vicks VapoRub on your chest and neck (avoiding the mouth and nostrils), drape a warm, dry cloth over your head, and repeat up to three times in 24 hours.
2. Easing Cough:
   • The National Institutes of Health (NIH) lists camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol (all present in Vicks VapoRub) as cough suppressants.
   • However, avoid using VapoRub if your cough has lots of phlegm or if it’s chronic (e.g., with asthma or emphysema). Follow the recommended steps for maximum effectiveness1.
3. Soothing Sore Muscles:
   • Both camphor and menthol in Vicks VapoRub act as topical analgesics. They create a cooling sensation that temporarily overrides pain in sore muscles and joints.
4. Insect Repellent:
   • Thanks to the cedar leaf oil it contains, VapoRub can repel insects. Dab it onto your clothes, ears, elbows, knees, and neck before heading outdoors on a sunny day. It’s also useful for bug bites due to its itch-relieving properties2.
5. Headache Relief:
   • Apply Vicks VapoRub under your nose to alleviate headaches. The menthol helps clear any problems in the forehead area.
6. Instant Tears (for Actors/Actresses):
   • Professional actors and actresses use Vicks VapoRub under their eyes to induce tears for photoshoots or stage performances.
7. Relief from Bruising:
   • Combine VapoRub with salt to prevent early bruise development.
8. Furniture Savior (for Cat Owners):
   • If you own a cat that likes to scratch furniture, VapoRub’s smell will deter them from scratching walls or doors.
9. Aromatherapy Solution:
   • Add Vicks VapoRub to an air freshener to circulate a pleasant scent in the room. It’s especially helpful during illness or chest congestion.
10. Acne Prevention:
    • Surprisingly, applying Vicks VapoRub to acne can help dry and soothe the skin when used multiple times a day.

Remember that Vicks VapoRub should not be used on children younger than 2 years old, and avoid applying it near your nose or eyes. Always follow safety guidelines and enjoy the benefits of this classic ointment! 😊