Vicks VapoRub Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Vicks VapoRub is a brand name product commonly used as a decongestant. It’s an over-the-counter topical ointment that’s applied to the chest to relieve cough and congestion. It does this through medicated vapors. Though Vicks VapoRub benefits those with cold symptoms, there are many other Vicks VapoRub uses. Vicks is made up of camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. These substances help suppress cough and act as a topical analgesic, meaning they reduce pain without having to take medication. Camphor is also a mild pain reliever.^1,2 You can find Vicks VapoRub at your local pharmacy, or you can purchase it online.

Vicks VapoRub Uses and Health Benefits

Vicks VapoRub benefits are vast despite it being marketed as a cold remedy. For example, when applied to the skin, camphor can help relieve joint and muscle pain.² Vicks VapoRub also said to act as one of the most effective natural insect repellants.³

• Athlete’s Foot - Among Vicks VapoRub uses, it can be applied topically to the feet to combat fungal infections like toenail fungus and athlete’s foot.4 This is because the ingredient camphor contains antifungal properties.5 Eucalyptus oil, another ingredient in Vicks VapoRub, has also been historically used to treat fungal infections as well.
• Restless Legs Syndrome - Vicks VapoRub benefits muscle conditions and can be applied topically to help soothe restless legs syndrome.
• Hemorrhoids - Vicks VapoRub can be applied to the problem area to relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids.

The ingredients in Vicks VapoRub have benefits of their own. For example, eucalyptus oil is said to provide pain relief, have antibacterial properties, and be beneficial for dental health.⁷ It’s also believed to moisturize the hair, treat wounds, and treat respiratory problems, which helps contribute to the beneficial effects of Vicks VapoRub.⁸

Vicks VapoRub Side Effects and Precautions

Vicks VapoRub should not be taken orally. It contains camphor, which can result in Vicks VapoRub side effects. Camphor overdose side effects can include:

• Abdominal pain
• Convulsions
• Hallucinations
• Anxiety
• Burning of the throat or mouth
• Nausea and vomiting
• Excessive thirst
• Rigid muscles
• Rapid pulse
• Slow breathing
• Tremors or twitching
• Sleepiness
• Skin irritation
• Unconsciousness

Seek medical attention immediately if you take Vicks orally and experience any of the symptoms.

Talk to your doctor about using Vicks VapoRub if you have sensitive skin or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Don’t give Vicks VapoRub to an infant or young child without first consulting your doctor. Before using Vicks VapoRub, test a small amount on your skin to see how you react. 

Camphor and menthol produce a cold or burning sensation. Wash your skin with soap and water if this causes discomfort. Don’t use this medication on broken skin, and don’t cover with a bandage. Rinse with water if you get the medication into your eyes, mouth, or nose. Consult your physician if you experience signs of an allergic reaction or experience severe irritation or breathing problems after using Vicks. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms persist for over seven days after treatment.

References

1. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=6b16b47e-9cbe-4e62-825b-f65416c900a1
2. http://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/d04844a1
3. http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2003/06/07/mosquito-bites.aspx
4. http://www.drwhitaker.com/toenail-fungus-remedies/
5. http://www.drweil.com/health-wellness/body-mind-spirit/feet/nail-fungus/
6. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/eucalyptus
7. http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/eucalyptus-oil.aspx
8. https://draxe.com/eucalyptus-oil-uses-benefits/
9. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002566.htm