9 Alternative Uses for Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub is a popular ointment that has been used for many years to treat congestion, cough and other common cold symptoms. Many keep this cheap and effective product in their medicine cabinet to use for mild respiratory discomfort, but there are alternative uses for Vicks VapoRub as well!
Furthermore, it contains a mix of various calming and aromatic ingredients such as menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor.
Vicks VapoRub can be used for a variety of problems. For example, if we combine it with garlic we can create an amazing remedy with both antibiotic and pain-relieving properties. Keep reading!
9 Unexpected Uses for Vicks VapoRub
Due to its high content of anti-inflammatory, analgesic and relaxing ingredients, this popular remedy has a bunch of alternative uses for Vicks VapoRub that many people aren’t aware of.
1. Athlete’s Foot
Applying a little bit of Vicks VapoRub on afflicted feet can reduce fungus and dryness.
How to Use
- Rub a little ointment on your feet every night before going to sleep and then put on socks.
- Use every day until it clears up.
2. Acne
Even though it is oily, this balm has a positive effect removing pimples caused by acne.
It’s powerful compounds reduce inflammation, cleanse the skin and avoid scars.
How to Use
- Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to pimples twice a day.
3. Muscle Pain
The warming sensation felt after applying this product with a soft massage is good therapy for muscle pain.
How to Use
- Massage the affected area with a good amount of ointment and cover with a hot, dry towel.
- Repeat twice a day until pain is relieved.
4. Stretch Marks
Applying a little ointment on stretch marks to achieve noticeable results with the help of hydrating properties that stimulate cellular reparation and increase firmness in the area.
How to Use
- Apply a good amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected areas and softly massage in until it is completely absorbed by the skin.
- Use every day to get the best results.
5. Warts
Those unsightly warts can be removed in a matter of days by consistently applying this ointment.
How to Use
- Apply a small amount over the wart, cover with a bandage, leave for six hours and then repeat with a new bandage.
6. Repellent
The strong odor of this product repels mosquitoes, so if you want them to go away, don’t hesitate to use Vicks VapoRub.
How to Use
- Rub into the exposed skin, especially when outdoors.
7. Avoid Infections
If you have small cuts or skin abrasions, apply to help prevent infections.
How to Use
- Cleanse the affected area and rub it in with gentle massage.
You might like: How To Naturally Treat An Infection
8. Bruises
To promote blood flow and avoid bruising, softly massage with this ointment.
How to Use
- Mix a little sea salt with Vicks VapoRub and rub over the wounded area with soft, circular massages, and repeat twice a day if necessary.
9. Vicks VapoRub and Garlic?
The anti-inflammatory properties of Vicks VapoRub combine with the antibiotic qualities of garlic to create a potent remedy against ear infections. Furthermore, this simple treatment has recently gone viral as many who have tried it swear by its effectiveness.
While either ingredient alone can be used, it’s best to combine their effects using both at the same time.
How to Use
- Peel a clove of garlic and put in the microwave for 10 seconds.
- When done, put a little Vicks VapoRub on one end and place in the affected ear.
- Leave for a couple of hours and you’ll notice the relief.
To conclude, not only is this ointment a good remedy for the flu and the common cold, but there are also many outstanding alternative uses for Vicks VapoRub!
Try it!
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
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- Quandt, S. A., Sandberg, J. C., Grzywacz, J. G., Altizer, K. P., & Arcury, T. A. (2015). Home remedy use among African American and white older adults. Journal of the National Medical Association, 107(2), 121.