You must have been accustomed to Vicks VapoRub ever since you were young. Even on hearing the name, the cooling sensation and the relief it provides will spring to your mind with a glimpse of the nostalgic memories of your mother rubbing it on your back. Did you know Vicks VapoRub has many other uses and it excels in each! Vicks VapoRub is a very common name in drugstores and can be found in almost every household.
9 Amazing Uses of Vicks Vaporub
If you have been using it for ages but do not know of its uses apart from relieving colds, be prepared to be shocked as VapoRub can come to your rescue in the toughest of situations! Read on to make the most of the wonderful product:
1. Reduces Inflammation
The menthol content of Vicks VapoRub can help you to reduce those acne inflammations. Put it on the acne with some salt for the best results!
Tip- The combination of Vicks VapoRub and salt can also be used to treat bruises. Apply a thin layer of the mixture on the bruise daily to heal it faster.
2. Acts as an Insect Repellent
Yes! You had the solution to all those bugs and other creatures right in front of you and didn’t even know about it. Well, it’s not too late. Put on a thin layer of the ointment on your exposed parts and you’re all set.
Bonus- It acts as a pretty good mosquito repellent too! Bugs and mosquitoes can’t stand the strong smell of Menthol!
.. and neither can pets!
It has been scientifically proven that both of our most common pets- cats and dogs hate the smell of Vicks VapoRub too! So the next time you want them to leave something or someplace alone, you know what to do.
Note- Be very careful while applying VapoRub anywhere near your pets, the ointment should not come in direct contact with their skin. The camphor content of the ointment can be poisonous to them.
3. Can get rid of Stretch Marks
Thought stretch marks have no natural remedies? Time to rethink ladies! Vicks VapoRub has been surprisingly useful in treating stretch marks! Apply Vicks VapoRub to the marks and secure the part tightly with a plastic wrap. It will be best if left overnight daily. The complete results might take time but the first results will be visible in just a month! Worth a shot, isn’t it?
4. For your feet
Menthol and camphor, two of the main components of Vicks VapoRub have strong antibacterial and antifungal properties that can be used to cure conditions like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus. Apply a layer of Vicks VapoRub onto the affected area and put on some socks to avoid displacement of the ointment. Leave it overnight for the best results. Continue daily for at least a month to notice significant results.
Vicks VapoRub can also be used as a moisturizer due to its ingredients like Menthol, Eucalyptus Oil, and Camphor.
Tip- VapoRub can also treat cracked heels! Apply it to the cracks overnight and wash it off in the morning with warm water. You can also use a pumice stone to scrape off the dead skin cells.
5. Make-up Remover
Ran out of make-up remover but have a deep red lipstick on? No worries if you have VapoRub at home! It can remove the deepest lipsticks and make-up right away. Apply it and wait for around 5 minutes before removing the lipstick with cotton. A bonus? Besides removing the make-up, it will also moisturize your lips!
Note- VapoRub as a make-up remover may be effective but it is not recommended for daily use.
6. Headaches
The medical uses of this ointment are more than just nose decongestion or cold relief. Vicks VapoRub can also treat your headaches. Apply it to the part and massage it slowly in circular motions for the best results.
7. Muscle Aches
You need to try it to believe it. Vicks VapoRub can also relieve you from Muscle Aches! Apply a layer of the ointment and wait for 5-7 minutes for relief!
8. Slimming Cream
Want to try a DIY slimming cream? VapoRub is the answer! Combine the ointment with some camphor, baking soda, and alcohol, and use it as your slimming cream! When applied daily, there will be visible results in a month!
9. And others
Thought the uses were over? Well.. not yet. Vicks VapoRub can also be used to silence your squeaky doors and to drive away bad odor!
Cautions
- Before use, apply Vicks VapoRub to a small area and wait for 30 minutes to check if there is any allergic reaction.
- As warned by the manufacturer, Vicks VapoRub is not suitable for children under 2 years.
- Always use Vicks inaccurate amounts. Using it excessively will do more harm than good.
Also Read: Remedies to Cure Common Cold At Home