Putting Vicks VapoRub (camphor, eucalyptus, and menthol) on the feet to quiet a nighttime cough is common advice. Whether an old wives' tale or an internet rumor, there is no evidence that it works.
People put Vicks VapoRub on feet for several reasons. Most commonly, it is recommended to ease cold symptoms at night. It is also purported to treat foot fungus, relieve foot pain, and smooth cracked heels.
This article discusses the practice of using Vicks VapoRub on the feet as a cough and cold remedy. It also reviews the research on off-label uses for Vicks VapoRub and the potential dangers of using it in ways that are not recommended by the manufacturer.
How Vicks VapoRub Works
VapoRub is a kind of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is the use of scented oils and other compounds as an alternative or complementary therapy.
When you're congested, putting VapoRub on your chest can help you feel like your breathing has improved. It does this by releasing menthol vapors that feel cooling to your nasal passages. This tricks your brain into thinking you are breathing more easily.
VapoRub doesn't really help relieve congestion or a cough, though. Your brain just thinks it does.
Verywell / Tim Liedtke
Knowing this, it's clear that putting Vicks VapoRub on the soles of your feet won't help you. The product is too far from your nose, so that it won't provide any aromatherapy benefits.
Using Vicks VapoRub on Your Feet
No scientific study has looked into whether Vicks VapoRub on the feet eases a cough. Without this kind of research, it's impossible to know if the remedy works.
A popular theory you may have seen online says VapoRub may stimulate the nerves in your feet. According to the theory, this stimulation is passed up the spinal cord to the medulla oblongata in the brain. The medulla oblongata is the part of your brain that regulates coughing.
Some compare this idea to a theory about muscle cramps. Some scientists think hyperactivity of certain nerves may cause at least one type of muscle cramp.
A number of studies have shown that a drink made with strong spices can be helpful for these types of cramps. Spices like cinnamon and capsaicin, the compound that makes peppers hot, may distract the nerves that cause these cramps.
According to the theory, VapoRub might have a similar effect on the nervous system. This effect, if it exists, would be separate from VapoRub's aromatherapy effect. So it might help a cough even though it is applied far away from the nose.
It's important to remember, though, that a plausible idea isn't the same thing as a tested scientific theory. Scientific theories are put through rigorous study before they are confirmed. Many plausible-sounding theories have been proven false by research.
Recap
There have been no scientific studies into VapoRub's effectiveness for treating a cough or cold when used on the feet. Without these studies, it is impossible to say whether or not it works this way.
Other Uses For Vicks VapoRub On Feet
In addition to relieving colds and coughs, Vicks VapoRub also has off-label uses. Vicks is sometimes used on the feet to relieve neuropathy pain, treat toenail fungus, and soften callouses.
Topical Pain Relief
Some people apply Vicks VapoRub to sore muscles and joints. Camphor and menthol—two ingredients in Vicks VapoRub—are topical analgesics (pain relievers).
Research also shows the menthol in Vicks VapoRub may help to relieve nerve pain. Three ways to use Vicks VapoRub on feet for pain relief:
- Use it as a muscle rub to prevent post-workout soreness
- Rub it on your wrists to ease carpel tunnel syndrome
- Apply it to your feet to relieve neuropathy
Treat Foot Fungus
The camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus in Vicks VapoRub have antifungal properties that may be useful for treating foot and toenail fungus. In fact, two studies found this off-label use of Vicks may be effective.
In one small study, Vicks VaporRub helped to ease onychomycosis (toenail fungus) symptoms in 83% of study participants. More than one-quarter experienced complete clearance of the underlying fungus after applying Vicks VapoRub to their toenails daily for 48 weeks.
Smooth Cracked Heels
Some people use Vicks VapoRub on their feet for cracked heels. This may be because Vicks has a base of petroleum jelly. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends petroleum jelly for softening calluses on your feet and heels.
A common recommendation on beauty blogs, there's no scientific evidence to support it works. That said, it can't hurt to try it if you have some in your medicine cabinet. However, plain petroleum jelly works and costs a fraction of the price.
Careful Use of Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub is an over-the-counter product that has been in use for a long time. This may make it seem like it has minimal risks. But there are some serious warnings about this product you should pay attention to.
- It contains a poisonous ingredient: Vicks VapoRub is made of camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol. Camphor is poisonous when swallowed. It can cause seizures, coma, or death. This is true even for small amounts. It may also cause harm when too much is inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
- It's not for small children: The Vicks VapoRub packaging clearly states it shouldn't be used on children under 2 years of age. This is true for any part of the body. Many people ignore this warning.
- It shouldn't be put under the nose: In adults and children older than 2, the product should only be used on the chest.
Putting Vicks VapoRub under the nose can lead to respiratory distress or difficulty breathing. This has been proven through studies and real-world incidents.
Summary
There is no evidence that using Vicks VapoRub on your feet will help ease a cough. This product may seem to help because menthol vapors make you feel as if you are breathing more easily.
VapoRub is not safe for children under 2. It contains camphor, which is poisonous if swallowed. This product should only be used on the chest, and only by adults and children over the age of 2.
A Word From Verywell
Vicks VapoRub is a popular product with some valid uses. Still, some people use the product in ways that are unproven and come with serious risks.
If you are concerned about cough and congestion, talk to your doctor about the best ways to ease symptoms. Never skip other treatments in favor of this product alone.
