Vicks VapoRub: The Many Alternative Uses
The average family has a container of Vicks VapoRub in their medicine cabinet because it’s such an important over-the-counter product. It relieves congestion quickly thanks to the blend of eucalyptus, menthol, and camphor. The vapors are strong, making it easy to relieve a stuffy nose, a cough, and various other breathing issues.
It has a few other uses that you may not know about…
- Ditch headaches: Apply some of the Vicks to your temples. If it’s a sinus headache, apply it directly under your nose.
- Relieve dandruff: There are antifungal properties for Vicks, and you can apply it to your scalp to stop the flaking.
- Get rid of toenail fungus: Apply the ointment to your toenails and the fungus can be gone within days.
- Soothe cracked heels: If the skin on your heels is dry, hard, and cracked, you can apply a layer of ointment and then cover your feet with socks. By the next morning, your skin will be noticeably softer.
- Reduce stretch marks: Apply the ointment onto your skin and then wrap plastic wrap around your thighs, hips, or midsection. Between the moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, the stretch marks won’t be as noticeable.
- Relieve hemorrhoids: If you have pain and itching from hemorrhoids, apply some of the VapoRub to the affected area. The cooling sensation will help dramatically. Just be sure to use it externally only.
- Repel bugs: If you don’t want insects bothering you, just use some VapoRub, as the smell will deter them. Similarly, if there’s a place in your house or yard where you don’t want a dog or cat to spend time, leave an open jar of Vicks there.