Vicks VapoRub has been around for over 100 years, but not too many people really know what it can be used for. If you’re like me, you know it’s an ointment that sits at the bottom of the closet that no one ever uses.
It is marketed as a topical chest cream to relieve cold-like symptoms or sore muscles. But Vicks VapoRub is much more than that.
There are two types of cream: regular and lemon. But the active ingredients in both types are the same. Vicks VapoRub uses a blend of camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol.
So what can you do with a little Vicks VapoRub? There are ten surprising ways to use it in your everyday life. Get ready to look at the bottom of your closet again and finally use some of that useful pomade you always ignored.
Here are ten amazing uses for Vicks VapoRub and tricks you probably never heard of:
1. Reduce acne or pimples
2. Cleaning of nails
When you rub your nails with Vicks, you can fight any fungus that may be lurking. By rubbing a little Vicks on your nails, you can keep your toenails safe.
3. Cracked heels
Cracked heels can be an uncomfortable and very annoying problem. You can get rid of them by putting some Vicks in your feet before going to bed. It will keep your feet hydrated and back to normal in no time.
4. Soothe muscles
Have you pulled a muscle while exercising? Rub some Vicks into the area of pain and relief will not be long in coming.
5. Tennis elbow
Tennis elbow is a condition that affects many athletes and non-athletes alike. Vicks can help with the pain by rubbing a little on the sore parts of your arm.
6. Heal small cuts
Menthol is a powerful antiseptic, so placing it in cuts or splinters can reduce the risk of infection.
7. Calm burns
Vicks can relieve the pain of minor burns, but make sure you talk to a medical professional if the burn is more than just a small.
8. Insect protection
Cedar oil, an ingredient in Vicks VapoRub, is a naturally occurring insect repellent. You can add a little to your clothes, furniture, or anywhere you want to keep insects away.
9. Keep pets where you don’t want them
It’s not just insects that are repelled by the smell of VapoRub, cats and dogs are too! The strong smell of menthol will keep them from scratching and urinating on your furniture – you can leave an open bottle of Vicks in the area to deter them.
We recommend mixing a small amount with water in a spray bottle. Spray the furniture you don’t want your pet to ruin.
10. Lubricate door hinges
Have you ever noticed that most hinge lubricants have a strange odor? Well, not VapoRub! Its oil properties are just as effective at loosening stuck hinges, so your home will smell great, too.
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