Tag: Vaporub

Upper respiratory tract infections occur with an annual incidence of 17.2 billion cases globally, making cough a widespread symptom [1.6.2]. A common question in many households is, **Does VapoRub help with cough?** This medicated ointment is often used for symptomatic relief, but its actual mechanism is frequently misunderstood.

The Missouri Poison Center warns that VapoRub should only be used as directed on the chest, back, or throat, never on nostrils or open wounds, highlighting key areas of concern regarding where not to put VapoRub. While a staple in many households, improper use can lead to significant health risks, particularly from its active ingredient, camphor.

Invented by pharmacist Lunsford Richardson in the late 1800s, Vicks VapoRub was originally called “Vick's Magic Croup Salve” before being renamed in 1911. Today, generations of families still rely on it as a topical medicine for temporary relief from coughs and minor muscle aches. To understand its effectiveness, it's important to know what is Vicks made of.