Vicks vaporub is good for breathing or not ?

Question

I read somewhere that Vicks vaporub is not good and it is also banned in some countries, is it true ? Is it safe to use ?

Answer 1

Working of Vicks Vaporub :

Aromatherapy is a type of VapoRub. The use of scented oils and other chemicals as a complementary or alternative therapy is known as aromatherapy.

Applying VapoRub to your chest when you are congested can make you feel like your breathing has become easier. It accomplishes this by exhaling menthol fumes, which cool the nasal passages. Your brain will believe that you are breathing more readily as a result.

However, VapoRub does not truly assist with coughing or congestion. Simply put, your brain believes it to.

Benefits of Vicks Vaporub :

1. Congestion reduction - Decongestants do not include Vicks VapoRub. Strong menthol and camphor fumes, on the other hand, cool your nasal passages and cause your brain & receptors to fire, giving the impression that your breathing is more open.

According to a 2017 study, taking VapoRub may enhance the subjective quality of sleep experienced by adult cold patients who self-reported their sleeping patterns.

2. Coughing relief - As cough suppressants, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil.

A word of warning, though: Vicks VapoRub is not advised if your cough is chronic, such as with asthma or emphysema, or if there is a lot of phlegm involved.

3. Easing aching muscles - Both menthol and camphor are classified by the NIH as topical analgesics, or painkillers you apply topically.

Products with camphor and menthol can produce a strong cooling sensation that might momentarily block out the discomfort of aching muscles and joints.