Vicks VapoRub is an institution as far as
over-the-counter medicine is considered, possibly because it works very
differently from other types of nonprescription treatments. While medications
these days are usually found in effervescent pills or tablets, Vicks treats
your ailments with vapors. EHow's Bridie Cavanaugh says camphor, eucalyptus
oil, and menthol - the three most important ingredients in Vicks - relieve
congestion and coughs when inhaled. The product also works as a good topical
analgesic for other problems.
All this is fairly common knowledge, but
did you know about Vicks' other beneficial properties? There are lots of home
remedies available for different types of problems, including a refreshing,
strong-smelling ointment. Here are just a few of them:
1. Headache
For
a standard headache, AnswersVideo (in the video below) suggests applying some
Vicks to your temples for fast pain relief. If you suffer from a sinus headache
instead, Livestrong recommends applying an ointment under your nose and
breathing slowly and deeply.
2. Muscle pain
Massage Vicks into the muscle that is
causing the pain, then wrap it in a dry, warm towel for a while, according to
LiveStrong.
3. Calm ear pain
An earache can be a symptom of an ear
infection, but it can also be a result of the common cold, WebMD says. Even
while following the care recommended by a doctor to fight the cause, the pain
can make daily activities difficult, especially sleeping . You only need to rub
a little cotton on a piece of cotton and place it in the ear overnight or until
the pain subsides.
4. Toenail fungus
Toenails affected by VapoRub should be
scrubbed two to three times daily for as long as needed, according to eHow
reports.
5. Cracked heels
Apply Vicks to your heels and the balls of
your feet, then rub it on the affected areas. Do this at night, then sleep in
socks. Lifestrong suggests rinsing the product with warm water the next morning
and scrubbing it with a pumice stone.
6. Repel bugs
Answers The video suggests applying light
amounts of Vicks to clothing and skin to scare off insects. If you get bitten
anyway, try rubbing some ointment on the spot to relieve the itch.
7. Keep animals away
Cats will move away from wet fix furniture,
which helps you keep your sofa, doors, and curtains free from scratches.
8. Heal bruises and minor wounds
Apply a thin layer of ficks and salt to the
bruises. This mixture will help the blood circulate faster and dissolve the
bruise mark in shorter periods of time, according to Livestrong. Answers The
video also suggests rubbing ointment around small wounds to improve healing.
However, eHow cautions against applying the product to open wounds and damaged
skin, so be careful with this product.
See the full list of uses below, and share
this story if you've learned something about VapoRub today!