What are the active ingredients in Vicks VapoRub? Specifically, I’m interested in knowing not just what they are (e.g., camphor, eucalyptus oil), but also the specific percentage or concentration of each active ingredient in the product. Furthermore, how does each of those active ingredients work on a physiological level to provide cough relief, and does it primarily address cough frequency, intensity, or both? Are there any known mechanisms of action related to these ingredients acting on the respiratory system, such as bronchodilation or expectorant effects, and are these effects well-established by scientific research or primarily anecdotal?

Answer

The active ingredients in Vicks VapoRub are:

• Camphor (4.8%): Camphor is a topical analgesic and cough suppressant. It works by stimulating nerve endings in the skin, creating a warming sensation that can help to distract from cough symptoms. It is also thought to mildly anesthetize sensory nerve endings, thereby reducing the urge to cough.

• Eucalyptus Oil (1.2%): Eucalyptus oil is an expectorant and cough suppressant. As an expectorant, it is believed to help loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up. Its scent is also thought to have decongestant properties, potentially opening up nasal passages for easier breathing.

• Menthol (2.6%): Menthol is a topical analgesic and cough suppressant. Like camphor, it activates sensory nerve endings in the skin, producing a cooling sensation. This cooling sensation can soothe a sore throat and reduce the perception of congestion. Similar to camphor, it’s thought to mildly anesthetize sensory nerve endings, which may help with cough relief.

Mechanism of Action for Cough Relief (Combined Effect):

The combination of these three active ingredients contributes to cough relief through multiple mechanisms:

1. Sensory Stimulation: Camphor and menthol stimulate sensory nerve endings, creating warming or cooling sensations that can distract from cough and congestion.
2. Possible Mild Anesthetic Effect: It’s theorized that camphor and menthol might slightly anesthetize sensory nerve endings, reducing the urge to cough.
3. Expectorant Properties: Eucalyptus oil is thought to help loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to expel.
4. Decongestant Sensation: The aromatic vapors of eucalyptus oil and menthol may create a sensation of decongestion, even if they don’t actually reduce nasal congestion.

It is important to remember that Vicks VapoRub provides symptomatic relief and does not treat the underlying cause of the cough.