Brief Summary
This video presents 42 unconventional uses for Vicks VapoRub inspired by Amish traditions. These hacks range from beauty and personal care to home and garden remedies, highlighting the versatility and practicality of this common household product. The key takeaways include using Vicks for soothing skin irritations, relieving congestion, repelling insects, and even protecting against certain pests.
- Vicks VapoRub offers a wide array of uses beyond its traditional application for cough and cold relief.
- Many of these uses are rooted in practical, simple solutions favored by Amish communities.
- The active ingredients in Vicks, such as menthol and eucalyptus, provide therapeutic benefits for various ailments and purposes.
Fresh Scent and Odor Masking
Amish families use Vicks VapoRub on their wrists for a lasting fresh scent due to its menthol aroma. A small amount is dabbed on each wrist in the morning, with the skin's warmth gradually releasing the fragrance. For a milder scent, it can be blended with hand cream before application, effectively masking everyday odors, especially during long trips or after working with animals.
Soothing Balm for Cracked Hands and Tired Muscles
Vicks can be transformed into a soothing balm for cracked hands and tired muscles by melting one tablespoon of coconut oil with a teaspoon of beeswax, then stirring in a teaspoon of Vicks. Once set in a small jar, this balm locks in moisture and soothes aches, combining the cooling relief of menthol with the nourishing properties of coconut and beeswax. It is recommended to keep it by the bedside or near the sink for quick comfort.
Treatment for Yellow or Brittle Toenails
Vicks can address yellow or brittle toenails, a common issue for those working outdoors. The menthol and eucalyptus create an environment where fungus cannot thrive. Before bed, feet should be washed and dried thoroughly, then a thin layer of Vicks applied to each nail, working it under the nail tip. Wearing clean socks overnight allows it to work, gradually improving the nails' appearance with steady use, especially when paired with regular foot washing and nail trimming.
Insect Repellent for Gardeners
Vicks serves as a natural insect repellent for Amish gardeners. Applying a small amount along the hems of pants, shirt sleeves, and collar helps keep mosquitoes, gnats, and flies away due to the strong menthol scent. For stubborn insects, a touch can be dabbed on socks and around ankles, avoiding the eyes and mouth, making weeding and harvesting more pleasant.
Elbow Moisturizer
Vicks can be used to relieve dry elbows, a common issue after field work or hand washing. Amish families rub Vicks into their elbows at bedtime for quick relief from dryness and cracking. After washing, a thick layer of Vicks is massaged into both elbows, covered with an old cotton shirt to protect sheets, resulting in softer, less flaky skin by morning. This trick can also be used on dry heels or knees.
Mold Prevention in Bathrooms
Vicks VapoRub can help discourage mold in damp bathroom corners. The menthol and eucalyptus create a less friendly environment for mold spores. After cleaning the tiles, a cotton swab is used to dab a thin line of Vicks between tile seams, focusing on spots that tend to get dark or slimy, repeating every week or two as an extra step to keep bathroom grout fresher for longer.
Cooling Compress for Fever Relief
Vicks can be used to create cooling compresses for fever relief. A teaspoon of Vicks VapoRub is added to a bowl of cool water, stirred until dissolved, and a clean washcloth is soaked in the mix. After wringing it out, the cloth is placed gently on the forehead or back of the neck. The menthol provides a soothing sensation and can help bring relief when someone feels flushed, but it should always be used along with other fever care methods.
Mosquito Repellent on Hats
Vicks can be applied to the inside rim of hats to repel mosquitoes. The menthol and eucalyptus create a scent barrier that flying pests dislike. It should be reapplied every couple of hours or if sweating heavily, avoiding the eyes by keeping it only on the hat's inner edge, making summer fieldwork or picnics more bearable.
Soothing New Piercings
Vicks VapoRub can soothe new piercings by dabbing a little on the spot to ease discomfort. The camphor and menthol bring a gentle cooling effect, helping reduce swelling and itch. After cleaning hands and the piercing site, a tiny bit of Vicks is applied with a cotton swab once or twice a day, watching for signs of infection and avoiding use on broken skin.
Relieving Chest Congestion with Mint
To relieve chest congestion, Vicks VapoRub can be melted with fresh mint leaves in a saucepan, then cooled slightly and rubbed onto the chest while taking deep breaths. The mint and menthol work together to open stuffy noses and ease coughs. A towel can be placed over the chest after application for longer-lasting warmth and relief.
Itch Relief for Bug Bites
A small dab of Vicks VapoRub can bring quick comfort to bug bites. Applied directly to the bite using a clean fingertip or cotton swab, the menthol cools the skin and helps distract from the itching, while eucalyptus and camphor may help reduce inflammation. It should not be used on broken skin, but is a fast, soothing remedy for most bites.
Earache Relief with a Warm Cloth
Vicks VapoRub can be used for earache relief by melting a small amount in warm water, soaking a soft cloth in the mixture, and holding the cool, damp cloth gently against the outside of the ear. The soothing vapors and gentle warmth bring relief, but Vicks should never be put directly in the ear canal, and professional care should be sought if pain continues.
Headache Relief by Applying to Temples
Vicks VapoRub can be used as a natural headache soother by rubbing a small amount on each temple, massaging gently in circles. The menthol scent provides a cooling, tingling sensation that can help relax tight muscles and distract from pain. This works best in a quiet, darkened room, paired with rest or a cup of tea for even more relief.
Inhalation for Stuffy Nose
Vicks VapoRub can be added to a bowl of steaming hot water for stuffy nose relief. Leaning over the bowl with a towel draped over the head and inhaling the vapors for several minutes helps open nasal passages and ease congestion. Care should be taken to avoid burns by not getting too close, using it before bed or anytime sinuses feel blocked.
Squirrel Deterrent for Grain Bins
Vicks VapoRub can protect stored grain from squirrels due to their sensitivity to strong smells. Smearing a small amount around the outer edge or base of grain bins and storage sheds discourages squirrels from gnawing or sneaking inside. The application should be refreshed every week or after rain, avoiding getting any on the grain itself, with cotton balls soaked in Vicks scattered near entry points for extra protection.
Fading Bruises
Vicks VapoRub can help speed the fading of bruises by gently massaging it over the area. The menthol increases blood flow, which can help break up pooled blood under the skin. A small amount should be rubbed in slow, gentle circles twice a day until the bruise lightens, avoiding use on broken skin, and combined with rest and elevation.
Sore Muscle Relief with a Warm Cloth
Vicks VapoRub can relieve sore muscles by spreading a thin layer on a warm, damp washcloth and placing it over achy spots. The menthol and camphor give a cooling-warm sensation that soothes tight muscles. The cloth should sit for 10 to 15 minutes, rewarming as needed, with massaging the muscle afterward boosting relaxation.
Nighttime Cough Relief by Applying to Feet
Vicks VapoRub can alleviate nighttime coughs by rubbing a generous amount onto the soles of clean, dry feet just before bed and covering with warm socks. The menthol aroma rises during sleep, calming coughs and opening airways for easier breathing, especially helpful for children who dislike chest rubs.
Facial Cleanse with Steam Inhalation
Vicks VapoRub can be used for a simple facial cleanse by adding a teaspoon to a bowl of steaming hot water, draping a towel over the head, and leaning over the steam, breathing deeply for 5 to 10 minutes. The menthol vapors open pores and help clear out congestion, leaving skin feeling clean and refreshed, followed by splashing the face with cool water and patting dry.
Cough Relief by Applying to Chest
Vicks VapoRub is a trusted remedy for coughs by gently massaging a thick layer onto the chest and throat area, allowing the menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oils to open airways, making it easier to breathe and easing the urge to cough. Covering with a warm flannel or towel adds comfort, often used before bedtime for a restful night's sleep.
Mite Deterrent in Chicken Nest Boxes
Vicks VapoRub can deter mites in chicken nest boxes by wiping a thin layer along the corners and seams after a thorough cleaning. The strong scent of menthol and eucalyptus keeps mites at bay, discouraging them from settling near the flock's eggs, repeating every week or two for best results, but not using it directly on the birds.
Odor Reduction in Boots
Vicks VapoRub can reduce odor in work boots and barn shoes by spreading a thin layer inside the insoles and toe area. The menthol neutralizes odors and leaves a fresh scent, allowing the boots to air out overnight after applying, helpful for rubber boots, work shoes, or athletic sneakers, refreshing as needed, especially during hot or rainy weather.
Breathing Relief with a Scarf
Vicks VapoRub can ease breathing in cold weather by rubbing a small amount along the inside edge of a scarf before heading outdoors. As the scarf is wrapped around the neck and mouth, the menthol vapors rise with each breath, gently clearing nasal passages and making it easier to breathe in the chilly air, especially helpful during early morning chores or walks.
Snoring Reduction by Applying to Chest
Vicks VapoRub can reduce snoring by applying a thin layer on the chest at bedtime. Gently rubbing the ointment over the chest and throat before sleeping helps open airways and reduce nasal congestion, which may decrease snoring, covering the chest with a warm flannel for added comfort, and combining with sleeping on your side if snoring is severe or persistent.
Reducing Stretch Marks
Vicks VapoRub can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks by gently massaging a thin layer onto the belly area after bathing, allowing the ointment's oils to soften and hydrate the skin. The menthol provides a mild tingling sensation while the petrolatum base locks in moisture, repeating nightly for smoother skin over time, testing on a small patch first, especially if skin is sensitive.
Cooling Minor Burns
Vicks VapoRub can provide quick relief for minor burns by dabbing a little on a cool, clean burn once the heat is gone. The menthol creates a cooling sensation that eases pain and helps reduce swelling, applying gently and avoiding broken skin, repeating several times a day or pairing with a cold compress for added comfort.
Glove Freshener
Vicks VapoRub can keep hands feeling fresher inside work gloves and winter mittens by rubbing a small amount inside before wearing. The menthol scent masks unpleasant odors and creates a light cooling sensation, especially during warm chores or long work days, letting gloves air out overnight after each use.
Migraine Relief with Potato Slice
Vicks VapoRub can be combined with a potato slice for migraine relief by placing a thin slice of raw potato on the forehead, adding a tiny dab of Vicks VapoRub to the potato surface, and lying down in a quiet, dark room. The cooling vapors and gentle pressure may help relax muscles and dull pain while the potato draws out heat, resting for 20 minutes or so, and pairing with deep breathing for added relief.
Cooling Relief for Overheating
Vicks VapoRub can provide cooling relief when overheated by gently spreading a small amount on the forehead. The menthol and eucalyptus work quickly to create a refreshing sensation while sitting in the shade or indoors, removing excess with a damp cloth if needed, offering quick comfort after outdoor chores or during summer canning sessions.
Calming New Bee Hives
Vicks VapoRub can help introduce bees to a new hive by rubbing a bit along the inside corners of bee boxes. The strong menthol aroma masks unfamiliar scents, helping calm the colony and discourage pests during the first few days, using just a small amount and avoiding areas where bees cluster or store honey, making hive transition smoother and helping new bees settle in safely.
Warmth for Chills on Calves
Vicks VapoRub can provide warmth for chills by rubbing it generously on the calves, then wrapping the legs with warm towels or an old cloth. The menthol and camphor generate warmth, while the wrap helps hold the heat close to the muscles, bringing comfort and helping shake off the cold after barn chores or chilly buggy rides, letting the wrap stay on for 20 minutes, then removing, and resting and hydrating while warming up.
Detangling Dog Fur
Vicks VapoRub can detangle dog fur by rubbing a very small amount onto the bristles of a dog's brush before grooming. The scent can help deter fleas, and the slight slickness eases out mats and tangles, being careful not to use too much or get any on sensitive skin, best for outdoor dogs after muddy adventures.
Shin Comfort
Vicks VapoRub can ease aching shins by gently massaging it onto the shins in small circular motions. The cooling sensation from the menthol and eucalyptus offers relief and helps reduce swelling, wrapping the legs in a warm towel for extra comfort if desired, repeating morning and evening or whenever soreness strikes.
Softening Cuticles
Vicks VapoRub can soften rough, ragged cuticles by rubbing a small amount around each nail before bed. The blend of menthol and petrolatum locks in moisture, softening the skin and making it easier to push back cuticles in the morning, slipping on cotton gloves after applying for deeper hydration while sleeping, repeating several times a week if hands see a lot of soap or cold.
Preventing Foot Fungus
Vicks VapoRub can discourage athlete's foot by rubbing a thin layer between the toes after ensuring the feet are dry following a hot shower. The menthol and eucalyptus oil form a barrier that keeps moisture out and fungus from growing, wearing clean, dry socks afterward, continuing the routine until the skin looks healthy and irritation disappears.
Moisturizing Chapped Lips
Vicks VapoRub can offer quick relief for dry and cracked lips by applying a tiny amount to chapped lips. The menthol soothes irritation, while petrolatum seals in moisture, promoting faster healing, applying at bedtime or right before heading outdoors to face the elements, finding lips become softer and less likely to crack with regular use.
Sore Throat Remedy with Honey and Garlic
Vicks VapoRub can be combined with honey and garlic for a sore throat remedy by mixing a spoonful of honey with a pinch of finely chopped garlic, then stirring in a small amount of Vicks VapoRub until blended. Taking a spoonful of this mixture up to twice a day when the throat feels scratchy, the menthol in Vicks helps open airways, while honey coats the throat and garlic brings natural comfort.
Softening Hands Overnight
Vicks VapoRub can soften dry hands overnight by massaging it into the hands before going to sleep, paying special attention to knuckles and rough spots. The menthol, camphor, and petrolatum deeply hydrate and help heal cracked skin, slipping on cotton gloves after applying Vicks for even softer hands, repeating nightly for best results.
Joint Ache Relief with Warm Wrap
Vicks VapoRub can ease joint aches by massaging the ointment into sore knees, elbows, or wrists, then wrapping with a warm towel or cloth. The menthol and eucalyptus oils create a gentle heat, relaxing muscles and soothing stiffness, leaving the wrap in place for 20 to 30 minutes, then removing and resting, repeating morning and evening for recurring aches.
Cleaning Garden Decorations
Vicks VapoRub can help keep outdoor garden decorations looking fresh by rubbing a small amount on faded or dirty ceramic, metal, or painted ornaments, then buffing clean with a soft cloth. The menthol lifts grime, and the petrolatum creates a moisture barrier, helping prevent further weather damage, using sparingly to avoid stickiness.
Healing Cracked Heels
Vicks VapoRub can heal rough and cracked heels by massaging a thick layer onto clean, dry heels at night and then pulling on socks. The ointment's blend of oils hydrates deeply while the menthol cools soreness, leaving socks on overnight for best results, repeating for several nights for really tough cases.
Knee Warmth
Vicks VapoRub can provide warmth to stiff or chilly knees by gently massaging it under the kneecap area, feeling the warmth spread as menthol and camphor boost circulation. Wrapping the knee with a flannel or wearing leggings over the ointment helps keep in heat, doing it quickly before morning chores or after coming inside, repeating as needed.
Filling Wall Cracks to Deter Bugs
Vicks VapoRub can be used as a temporary filler for cracks along walls or floorboards to deter insects. The strong scent deters insects, while the ointment's sticky texture helps block their entry, applying with a cotton swab, pressing into gaps and smoothing the surface, replacing every week or two or after a good cleaning.
