The American pharmacist Lunsford Richardson created an ointment for his son to battle croup. Today, it’s been over a century since Vicks VapoRub was introduced to the world! We can’t thank the gentleman enough for inventing this magical formula that not only heals flu or common cold but has several other incredible benefits too.
With ingredients like menthol, eucalyptus oil, and camphor, it can soothe itchy-irritated scalps, fight dandruff, and nourish and repair dry skin! Never knew these many usages of the petroleum jelly? Well, get on board to learn some alternate uses of the balm by which a person can resolve even some everyday household hiccups. From today onwards, a tiny tub of Vicks VapoRub might just become that staple we can’t go a day without!
Promote Hair Growth
Let’s admit that we can never be satisfied with our hair growth. No matter how healthy we eat or even drink gallons of water, there’s always something going on with our hair! Sometimes it’s hair fall and other times it feels like the tresses just doesn’t grow!
So, first and foremost on the list of home remedies with VapoRub is how to fight this problem. Simply rub a required amount of the balm between palms and massage it onto the roots. Since VapoRub has antibacterial properties, it effectively removes any bacteria or fungi, which might be preventing new growth.
Prevent Shiny Leather Shoes From Fading Away
Leather shoes look incredible, but they are high maintenance too! Wear them once or twice, and the pair would require polishing and buffing. That means consuming the polishing cream sooner than expected and buying a new one every week would mess up with the entire monthly budget!
The solution? Dust away any loose dirt or grime on the kicks and then rub VapoRub on it. Spare a toothbrush for this task or a microfiber cloth. Thirty to sixty seconds of scrubbing with the gel, and those shoes will be as good as new – squeaky clean and shiny!
Moisturize Dry Patches With VapoRub
Weather changes, harsh chemicals in beauty bars, and cosmetic products peel off the skin’s natural oils along with the dirt. It leaves the consumer with a dry T-zone on the face or unsightly looking dehydrated patches on the cheeks. Once again, a small box of VapoRub would come in handy in such situations.
Apply the cream on the dried-out areas and see it restoring the moisture on the skin. Being consistent will provide a smooth appearance and even better results with time. The best part is it comes in travel-friendly packages, so carrying a box of VapoRub everywhere won’t be a hassle for all the light travelers!
Treat Chapped Lips
Chapstick and balms are such Millennial things, but if someone is an old-school believer, chances are they would prefer VapoRub over any other product. Plus, it’s a tried and tested trick that’s effective and light on the pocket too! No pains, only gains!
Say goodbye to peeled-off or dried lips in winters by rubbing a pea-sized quantity of VapoRub on them. It reduces inflammation, dissolves blisters, moisturizes, and heals chapped skin. Fun fact – for all those who like fuller lips, there is menthol in the salve that works as lip plumper! Thank us later!
Cure Headaches
Since we mentioned menthol, let us share another benefit of this versatile ingredient. Applying VapoRub when someone has a throbbing headache would relieve the pain and tension in no time because of the cooling sensation from menthol. Doesn’t this sound soothing already?!
Now a person would not have to depend on a loved one for a head massage during a headache. One can easily rub the balm on their forehead and take a nap for quicker and better results. Even for people who don’t like to pop pills right away, VapoRub is an apt solution.
It’s Also A Makeup Remover
Wish to try something other than micellar water or wet wipes for removing makeup? Use VapoRub for a change and feel the difference. Immerse a cotton pad into the gel and slowly wipe off foundation, blush, and even lip tints.
Also, please be cautious around eyes or perhaps do a patch test. Some people may experience a tingling sensation due to the presence of menthol. But other than that it’s a safe product to be used on the face. The oils present in the VapoRub remove makeup without drying the skin. It’s a total win-win solution!
Enjoy A Spa Session Every Day
As soon we think of self-care, we immediately run to a spa center to pamper ourselves. But hold on, what if we share that one doesn’t have to step outside their homes to have a relaxing spa session? Instead, the salon will come to the house.
Here’s how – purchase a pack of VapoShower tablets, place one on the floor directly under the shower and let the soothing vapors from the tablet work their magic. The essential oils will release a refreshing scent in the entire room, making it feel heavenly! When combined with a hot shower, it will relieve light body aches, headaches and decongest a stuffy chest.
No More Bug Spray
Some people have allergic reactions to bug sprays due to the high amount of chemicals present in them. If a dear one belongs to the category, gift them a big pack of VapoRub for their next trekking trip. The ointment works wonders in repelling insects!
Apply a thin coating of the VapoRub on arms, legs, or any uncovered body part and enjoy a worry-free bonfire session or camping in the forest. What we like about this product is its pleasant scent, but mosquitos and bugs can’t stand it, which is why it acts as an excellent repellent!
Use It To Treat Stretch Marks
Unless a person opts for cosmetic surgeries, there’s hardly anything that can be done to remove stretch marks. Yet, these can be healed if taken care of in the begging. All these marks need is a moisturizer, and what better than VapoRub to heal those red or purple stretch marks we get in the initial phase.
Once these cracks turn white, there’s nothing in our hand, so before that happens, grab the ointment and massage it on the affected areas regularly. Slowly, the lines would seem less apparent. Patience is key here. It is a slow process but certainly worth the wait!
Silencing Door Creaks
Who wishes to live the clichéd horror film sequel of squeaking doors every day? Call us fainthearted, but the spine-chilling creaks only add to our nightmares! But to one’s surprise, the remedy is right in their medicines boxes- VapoRub! Besides saving us from severe headaches, this power gel can also treat wooden joints.
Rubbing some balm on the hinges of doors and cabinets can get rid of the nasty squeak right away. Why rush to the store for grease when this non-toxic petroleum jelly can ease out the friction in the pivot of wooden entryways? After using this handy lubricant, we can bet that door squeals will be a thing of the past!
Goodbye, Acne Scars!
Pimples are no wonder a nightmare to teenagers! These uninvited guests frequently show up on one’s face with terrible timings. But this time, we have a jelly miracle ready in our defense. While some might’ve heard of VapoRub’s wonder in eliminating acne and skin breakouts, the rest will go, “say what?!”
We’re not kidding! Applying a small amount of Vicks Vaporub on the zits can help reduce inflammation and redness due to the acne almost overnight. The balm’s got ingredients like eucalyptus oil and menthol that soothe blemishes and eases minor skin breakouts. Well, we can’t let those red bumps pull us down!
For Crocodile Tears
Who hasn’t been stirred by their favorite star’s gentle sobs? It’s time we unleash the truth behind such convincing weeps. To one’s amazement, VapoRub is the real star! A gentle application of this mentholated gel under the eyes would undeniably trickle out tears over and over again!
Faux teardrops are a thing for those in showbiz. The make-believe emotional performances are challenging even for award-winning artists. But, perhaps not so much with a bottle of VapoRub at hand! Yet, one should still be cautious to keep the balm off their eyes and eyelashes.
Slimming Overnight
Losing extra pounds might be a hassle sometimes, especially for those who aren’t into sports or gyming. If one’s tired of following the endless trail of cabbage diet, eco-Atkins diet, zero-carb diet, and so on, they might give the VapoRub hack a try!
Some claim that applying a concoction made from the Vicks balm, rubbing alcohol, camphor powder, baking soda, and covering it with a plastic wrap helps burn fat, thereby tightening the skin. Still, there’s no scientific evidence to back it! Though it seems like an incredible home remedy, we still suggest practicing a healthy lifestyle for long-term results.
DIY Pet Repellant
It may take weeks for anyone to get used to the ways of their adorable pets. And potty training doubtlessly counts among the hard lessons! But fret not; our trustworthy balm will help us fix this too by tricking on our companion’s “smell memory.”
Some dabs of Vicks VapoRub on all probable spots the pawed beauties like to go about their business is all one needs to chase them away. They might never return to the same site again! Many specialist sprays might even fail, but this medicinal rub is particularly disliked by dogs enough to deter them. Remarkable, isn’t it?
Let Fingernails Rest While VapoRub Takes Over
What on earth could be more discomforting than irresistible itchiness? Those with dry skin often fall prey to this annoyance! Incessant scratching is no remedy; instead, consider applying a thin layer of Vicks! Be it bug bites or rashes, and the power gel miraculously gets rid of skin irritations!
Camphor and menthol are anti-bacterial, while eucalyptus oil offers soothing properties to relieve any itchy sensation. With such essential ingredients, one can easily trust the formula for treating affected areas of their skin. But if VapoRub doesn’t heal, professional help from a dermatologist is always advisable!
Painful Ears Relieved
Although some people consider earaches to be a minor nuisance, they can give one several sleepless nights. But before they rush to the doctor, a quick home remedy might prove to be valid. Our household staple, VapoRub, is often touted to relieve aches from painful ears.
Try applying some ointment on a cotton swab and carefully place it within the ears. We expect some positive results on leaving it overnight! Although Vicks cannot cure infections, its active ingredients help doing away with the unbearable pain. But if it persists, we recommend consulting a physician for appropriate treatment.
DIY Lock Lubricant
Those who’ve been through the rusty padlock nuisance know how frustrating it might get to free a key. Every lock interior is prone to gradual corrosion, eventually. So, we suggest that our weary warriors use a viable lubricant instead of breaking a sweat over jammed keyholes every time!
One has to apply VapoRub on the hinges of a padlock and turn the key in it after dipping the same into the gel. And the rest is a miracle! Lubrication of metal joints will ease out the bonds of this helpful couple, thereby giving us no worries for some months. Also, it saves us from rushing to the stores for grease!
Slide The Zip In Style
Are immovable zips worth fretting on? No way! Let our cold and flu staple answer its call! Applying a generous amount of the VapoRub can undeniably help to fix all stuck zippers in no time. Now, doesn’t that seem surprisingly easy?
Disposing garments with rusty slide fasteners or spending to get it replaced for a new one are perhaps less wise options. One should trust the power of petroleum jelly present in this medicinal rub which offers lubrication. We can bet, with Vicks, zip-ups are sure to have a new lease on life!
Revitalize Humidifying Experiences
If the smell of menthol intrigues and relaxes one, they might consider freshening up the home air with a dash of Vicks Vaporub in their humidifiers. Camphor and menthol vapors can not only tackle bacteria and viruses but also eases out breathing issues.
Indeed low-cost aromatherapy, the essential oils in the ointment, can do wonders in clearing one’s lungs! But, having said this, the benefit can only be enjoyed by those with vaporizers that have compartments to add their favorite supplements. Otherwise, we highly advise keeping the VapoRub off the electric gadget!
Trying Not To Get Ticked
Who doesn’t love the great outdoors with the sun on our face and wind in our hair? But it only lasts until one finds a tick that has come just to ruin that bright sunny day. And it can get nasty if left untreated. We have just the solution to get rid of that pesky one with ease – the VapoRub.
One has to apply a blob of the ointment over the tick as soon as they notice the bite. So while we may be fans of Vicks, those ticks decidedly are not, and the lack of air combined with the smell of menthol is enough to get the small pests to let go.
VapoRub Candles
Right when we thought we’d heard it all, we came across this DIY candle using a jar of Vicks VapoRub. And it does have its benefits; not only can we add it to our existing collection of candles, but it also helps get rid of coughs and colds.
We need a piece of rolled-up cotton and that jar of VapoRub. Next, we need to dip one end of the cotton in the tub and make a hole in the lid large enough to fit the cotton through. Now our candle is ready to light while diffusing that soothing aroma into our rooms!
The Balmy Feet
It’s not a hidden fact that Vicks is quite effective when one needs to get rid of any nagging chest-related difficulties. Apart from rubbing VapoRub in that area, there’s another way to do the trick – rubbing it on our feet.
Yes, we are serious, and many believe the top way to get the full benefits of this jelly is to apply this stuff at the bottom of our feet. While we aren’t sure if it helps, it might be worth a try the next time we feel under the weather.
Therapy For Cracked Heels
We often find ourselves complaining of those cracks in our heels, especially during the winters. And not keeping them moisturized can lead them to be cracked, which can get painful. But it’s time to ditch those expensive creams and grab that bottle of VapoRub from our medicine cabinet.
So if we need to bring our feet to their former glory, start by massaging that jelly into the skin. Slide on a pair of socks and wait for that VapoRub to absorb for its full effect. The bottom line here is to stop rubbing it on our chests as there are much better ways of using it.
Happy Toes
Toenail fungus is undoubtedly unattractive, not to mention how painful and uncomfortable it can get for someone suffering from it. While it seems to be a common skin infection, getting rid of it can be pretty challenging. But don’t get too worked up, as we have a simple solution for that nasty fungus.
The next time, if someone spots a bad toenail before going to the doctor, try using VapoRub first. Put a little bit of Vicks on the nails and the skin surrounding them; this will be enough to treat that fungal infection without any hassle. Continue this for two weeks, and that fungus will be long gone.
Dry Scalp Treatment
A dry scalp can be very annoying because of the itching, not to mention dandruff that can develop, causing white flakes to fall, which can be embarrassing. Vicks VapoRub is genuinely a godsend for sufferers since it can help to remove dryness from the scalp.
Apply the healing salve on the affected areas of the head. It’s best to do the treatment after hair washing and just before going to bed. The cure comes from the combination of eucalyptus and petroleum, which are some of the ingredients of VapoRub.
Soothes Symptoms of Eczema
It’s common knowledge that Vicks VapoRub can provide relief from minor itching, but not many know it can also work against symptoms of eczema. Sometimes referred to as atopic dermatitis, the skin condition can be a bummer, especially during flare-ups.
The condition is accompanied by dry, flaky skin that can appear as red rashes that are very itchy at times. By applying VapoRub, it can help decrease itchiness, as well as inflammation. The menthol component of the concoction soothes the skin, plus its antibacterial properties help calm any swelling.
Aromatherapy, But With Balm
Health is wealth, so the saying goes, and many people try to follow a healthy lifestyle by changing their diet and exercising. One more practice can benefit one’s wellness, and it’s been around for many years – Aromatherapy. The holistic healing treatment is said to improve a person’s overall health, targeting the mind, body, and spirit.
Some people are probably unaware that they can use Vicks VapoRub for Aromatherapy. To use the VapoRub like essential oil, particular types of vaporizers, diffusers, and humidifiers are needed. Because the topical ointment is used primarily for cough suppression, its smell circulating in the air can help ease decongestion.
Remove Warts
Warts can be a bugger, especially when they are in the hands. Most of the time, they are harmless and go away on their own, but they can also stay around for long and can be contagious. One day it can affect the hands; the next, they are transferred to the face.
Although it’s better to seek the help of medical professionals in removing warts, it doesn’t hurt to try home remedies that many people swear works, like Vicks VapoRub. Apply the ointment directly on warts, cover with gauze, and repeat the procedure twice a day until the skin lumps disappear.
A Helping Hand For Equestrians
Horse competitions are usually composed of both genders, not just stallions. Not many are aware of the dilemma horse jockeys face when mating season arrives. As it turns out, the male horses lose focus because they get distracted by the scent of the mares.
One secret that equestrians swear by is using Vicks VapoRub to keep horses focused. The VapoRub is applied on the steed’s nose, and that will do the trick. This well-known ointment works as a counter for the natural scent of the mares, helping the handler to continue the stallion’s training.
Preventing Damage To Furniture
Furniture can be costly and difficult to repair, so there must be a way to protect it from dirt and pets’ claws. Let us present one effective trick that will help prevent any furniture from getting damaged. Better to save than buy new!
Take a small amount of VapoRub ointment and rub it on the furniture, doors, and walls – any affected area, actually. It is even advised to rub it on oneself to stop a cat from scratching the owner’s legs and arms. The ointment will prevent pets from scratching anymore.
How To Make Wounds Heal Faster
Sometimes cuts and wounds seem to heal very slowly, almost at a snail’s pace. Here is one nice hack to make the whole process faster – get VapoRub. This product will make sure to speed up the healing and reduce scars.
Apply a thick layer of VapoRub on a minor cut or wound once or twice per day. Just remember not to put it directly on an open wound because it can irritate it. If applied properly, VapoRub will reduce the risk of infection.
Make Bruises Go Away Faster
Nobody likes bruised skin, and the bad news is that they do not fade away quickly. Fortunately, the good news is that Vicks can solve this problem in a few tries. That is right, no need to look at yellow and brown skin if one uses this product.
Take a layer of this ointment and put it on the bruised skin. It contains mentholated, which makes bruising go away faster. It is not magic, though, just menthol doing its job by reducing inflammation. Goodbye bruises, and welcome, clean skin!
Goodbye Arthritis Pain
People who have arthritis know how painful it can be. The aches and pains prevent them from enjoying everyday activities. On top of that, there is swelling and stiffness that can cause even more pain. Thankfully, there is a solution, and all that is needed is VapoRub.
Vicks product contains eucalyptus oil that soothes arthritis aches and reduces the swelling in joints too. It is all about a chemical called 1,8-cineole, which is part of this oil. One can put it on the joints and skin and watch the pain go away!
Prevent Night Coughs
Night coughs are not only painful but can also be inconvenient. Imagine being ill but also sleep-deprived – indeed, nobody looks forward to it! To prevent sleepless nights, we have an effective hack, and it is called VapoRub.
The balm fixes this issue very quickly and efficiently because it contains menthol, which reduces constant coughing instantly. The best part about it is that it is safe for kids to use. Do not forget that there is no magic, and do consult the doctor if the night coughs do not go away.
Obscuring Pungent Scents
Vicks has numerous uses; apart from unblocking a clogged nose, the balm can also be incredibly beneficial for people with a delicate sense of smell. The sweet, distinct menthol fragrance has made Vicks a popular product not only in many households but in some workplaces too.
Take, for example, paramedics and detectives, who use Vaporub to mask some of the toxic smells that they might find at their work sites. All they do is dab a small amount under their nostrils, and they are protected from all the other distracting fumes, keeping them laser-focused on the task at hand.
Curing Ringworm
While we know Vaporub has a couple of medicinal capabilities, this has to be mysterious of all. Ringworms are skin ailments caused by a fungal infection and spread by human contact. It gets its name from the ring-like shape it forms on the skin, and interestingly, rubbing some menthol-infused ointment can completely get rid of it.
Many people have successfully treated the ringworm infection by applying some Vaporub on the affected area. Doctors still haven’t found out why it actually works, but hey, we wouldn’t want to change a healing formula now, would we?
Relieve Chest Congestion
Many of us have struggled with the common cold, and sometimes, we have to deal with a clogged chest. With some Vicks, the good news is one can alleviate the irritating congestion, ensuring that they can do some easy breathing.
The popular way is to massage the Vaporub directly on the chest, which will give someone instant relief. Other people prefer to put it in a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam, creating a homemade spa therapy session. Either way, at the end of the day, one would have a clear chest, and as a bonus, it’s a great way to relax.
Alleviating Sunburn Pain
Summer days are always fun- getting tanned and enjoying the sun in all its glory. Yet, sometimes many of us head home with some painful sunburns after a day out, which takes away the happiness and makes us think twice about sunbathing again.
Luckily, some folks found out that massaging Vicks over the sunburned area will help calm down any skin irritation. It seems like apart from bringing our sunscreen the next time we hit the beach, we will be sure to throw in some Vaporub in the bag!
Blocking Infections
For years, our ancestors have been known to use herbs for medicinal purposes, which used to work wonders. The Aboriginals, in particular, used eucalyptus oil to prevent wound infections. We already know which product features this magic substance!
To ensure maximum impact, one needs to make sure that the fresh sore is clean, then apply a small amount of VapoRub on the area. While it might sting for a short while, one can be sure that bacteria will not get anywhere near the graze, subsequently hastening the healing process.
Calm Down The Hemorrhoids
Some conditions or diseases tend to be more uncomfortable and embarrassing than they are dangerous. A perfect example is hemorrhoids that cause swelling and itching of the behind. When a person is ailing from one or more of these little monsters, it’s hard to contend with the increasing urge to scratch one’s nether region even when in public.
Thankfully, VapoRub has been proven to offer instant hemorrhoid relief. Although there are many creams in the market specially formulated to take care of this problem, sometimes we are not prepared for a bad day and so, having a jar of Vicks comes in handy.
Keep Rosacea Symptoms At Bay
No one is perfect in this crazy world, and some of us have to deal with the common skin ailment known as Rosacea that tends to make one’s blood vessels visible on the surface and leaves some sore redness. Thankfully, there are many remedies available to sort out this problem.
We have to salute the genius aspect of the human brain that discovered that a dab of VapoRub could reduce these symptoms instantly. A jar of Vicks paired with some Clearasil is reportedly a perfect remedy that is relatively cost-effective
Kick The Athlete’s Foot To Obscurity
Exercise is very healthy and highly recommended for anyone who plans to live a long life and reduce visits to the doctor. Nevertheless, in the course of a person’s fitness routine, it’s possible to catch an athlete’s foot that is downright painful and uncomfortable.
Dr. VapoRub has been known to step in like a knight in shining armor during such times. Since the condition is caused by tinea fungus that brings itchy rashes and blisters, Vicks’ famous eucalyptus oil and menthol ingredients are well-equipped to eliminate the fungal infection.
Soothe Insect Bites Instantly
We all enjoy the outdoors, like walking on the beach with our partner or camping with friends to enjoy the excellent weather. All the same, every good thing comes at a price, and a person may be forced to contend with some mean bug bites along the way.
Luckily, having a jar of Vicks in one’s backpack can offer that carefree confidence knowing that even if mosquitoes were to join the party uninvited, a little dab of VapoRub would take care of the itching due to the ingredients’ anesthetic properties.
Attain A Youthful Appeal
It’s funny how kids want to grow faster and be adults, while older people wish to be younger. When the aging effects like wrinkles start to catch up with a person, some moneyed individuals rush to undertake procedures like facelifts and contouring.
The good news is that a person doesn’t need to splash big bucks for anti-aging creams. Vicks contains a combination of menthol and camphor that cools the skin and gives it an instant tightening effect. A regular application of VapoRub is all one needs for a youthful glow.