How does Vicks VapoRub work
Vicks VapoRub can help you feel like you're breathing better when you're congested. It works by creating menthol vapors that feel cooler in the nasal passages when inhaled, tricking your brain into thinking you are breathing more easily. It actually doesn't relieve congestion or coughing - your brain thinks it does.
How to apply Vaporab
Tim Lidtke/Frewell
When you know this, it seems very unlikely that placing it on the soles of your feet (rather than your chest, as directed) will do any benefit at all because the product is too far from your nose to get much benefit from aromatherapy.
Use it on the feet
No scientific studies have been done on whether Vicks VapoRub on Your Feet relieves a cough. As such, it is not certain whether or not it works, despite what some proponents of this home remedy may say.
A popular hypothesis has surfaced online that VapoRub might stimulate nerves in your feet, which in turn might stimulate the spinal cord, and then the medulla oblongata — the part of the brain that regulates coughing.
Some compare this idea to a theory about relieving muscle cramps. Basically, some scientists believe that at least one type of muscle cramps is caused by overactivity of certain nerves, and several placebo-controlled studies have shown that drinking a mixture of pungent and spicy spices (including cinnamon and capsaicin) can distract These nerves relax spasms 1
If true, they say it is possible for Vicks to have a similar effect on the nervous system that is completely separate from its aromatherapy properties. Therefore, it may be able to calm a cough, although positioned away from the nose.
It is important to remember, however, that the seemingly plausible common notion is a far cry from a scientific theory established through rigorous study and evaluation. Many seemingly plausible ideas have been proven wrong by research.
careful use
While you may think that the risk of using Vicks VapoRub is minimal because it is a long-standing over-the-counter product, it does come with serious and worthwhile warnings that must be respected.
Even if VapoRub on the foot has one day been studied and shown to relieve a cough, it is important to be aware of the following :
Contains a toxic ingredient: Vicks VapoRub is made with camphor, eucalyptus oil, & menthol. It can cause seizures, coma, or death even when a tiny amount is swallowed or when too a lot is inhaled or ingest through the skin.
It's not for young children: The packaging of Vicks VapoRub clearly states that the product should not be used on children under two years of age, but many people ignore the warning. (This applies anywhere on the body).
Should not be applied under the nose: In adults and children over 2 years of age, the product should only be used on the chest.
.jpg)