12 Unexpected but Great Uses for Vicks VapoRub

Vicks VapoRub is a popular common cold remedy with medicated vapors. Its main ingredients — camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus — help relieve cough and nasal congestion. However, these are not the only benefits of the product.

We at Bright Side are pretty sure you’ve never heard of these unconventional but amazing uses for Vicks VapoRub, so we decided to share them with you.

12. Works as an insect repellent

Try using an open Vicks VapoRub jar to repel mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. It’s perfect when you suddenly run out of repellent or you have left it at home.

11. Relieves headaches

Menthol, one of the main ingredients of Vicks VapoRub, helps lower blood pressure in your head and, as a result, relieves pain. Just rub a little on your forehead.

10. Takes good care of your feet

Before going to bed, apply some Vicks to your heels, especially to the cracked and dry areas, and put your socks on. Make sure you’re using old socks because the next day they will have a super strong menthol smell. In the morning, wash your feet with cold water, use a pumice stone to scrub away dead skin, and then apply your regular foot care product. Keep doing so every night, and soon you’ll see some noticeable results.

9. Prevents pet incidents

Things happen, and if you don’t want your pet to pee inside your house, leave some Vicks in those places where the incidents happen more often. Veterinarians say that both dogs and cats can’t stand the smell of Vicks, so this method will definitely work.

8. Stops your cat from ruining your furniture

If your cat loves to scratch everything it can get its claws on, such as doors or new curtains, leave some VapoRub there. Your furry little friend will learn their lesson and will stop ruining your furniture.

7. Reduces stretch marks

Rub some Vicks VapoRub on your stretch marks, and in just 2 weeks you will see that they gradually become less visible.

6. Treats toenail fungus

If you suffer from toenail fungus, try applying some Vicks to the affected nail every night and then put your socks on. The next day, wash your feet and clip off as much infected nail as possible. Repeat every night until your nails recover completely.

5. Helps get rid of bruises

Gently rub some Vicks VapoRub on your bruise, and observe the healing process. The ointment will reduce all the swelling, and the bruise itself will disappear faster.

4. Relieves earache

Here’s one simple way to relieve earache: put a small cotton ball with Vicks VapoRub in your ear, and leave it there for a few hours until you see your doctor. Remember: although this method does help relieve ear pain, it doesn’t cure the infection itself. So it’s very important that you consult your health professional as soon as possible.

3. Brings noticeable results on your face

Apply a thin layer of Vicks VapoRub to the problem areas (acne, pimples, etc). Leave it overnight, and clean your face in the morning. Be persistent, and you will see positive changes very soon.

2. Relieves muscle and back pain

Thanks to its natural ingredients, Vicks VapoRub helps relax stressed muscles. If you’re suffering from "tennis elbow," try massaging some Vicks on the affected area until the pain is gone.

1. Helps get rid of belly fat

Some women claim rubbing Vicks on the belly and covering it with a cling wrap can help reduce the appearance of cellulite.

General recommendations before using Vicks VapoRub

• Just like any other product that is used on the skin, Vicks VapoRub must be tested on your skin before you use it. To see if you have an allergic reaction, put some Vicks on the back of your hand and watch for a while. If you notice burning, redness, or any other symptoms, don’t use it at all.
• The product shouldn’t be used on children under 2 as it can adversely affect the respiratory tract.
• If you have doubts, always consult your doctor before using.