Commonly used remedy or it should be called medicine, during cough and cold to relieve chest congestion and make breathing feel easier is Vicks VapoRub. Though it works very-well for adults and older children, it is not safe for babies below 2 years of age. Because Infants have very narrow and delicate airways(organs), and the strong vapours which directly effect the nervous around the applied area, Vicks can irritate their breathing passage instead of giving relief. When applied near the nose or on the chest of a baby, the vapours can cause swelling inside the airways, leading to breathing difficulty.
Vicks contains strong active chemicals such as:
- Camphor (4.8%) — in Vicks VapoRub this is the most harmful element in VapoRub for babies, inhaling or swallowing it can cause seizures and breathing trouble
- Menthol (2.6%) — irritates the respiratory passage of infants
- Eucalyptus Oil (1.2%) — may cause airway tightening and mucus blockage
These ingredients are powerful. Babies’ bodies are not ready to tolerate such strong vapers. When a baby breathes in these chemicals, in place of opening the airways, Vicks cause the contradictory reaction—respiratory distress, coughing spasms, and choking symptoms.
How Vicks Works in Human Body (Only for Adults and Older Children)
Mostly everyone believe that Vicks opens jammed/chocked noses, but scientifically, it does not remove mucus or actually clear the lungs. Instead, it creates a sensory-physical illusion.
Here’s the way it works:
- The vapours of menthol and eucalyptus rouse cold receptors inside the nose.
- These indications go to the brain, giving a false feeling of enhanced breathing.
- The chest/lungs feel cool and open, even though the nasal jam remains the same.
So, Vicks gives comfort, not a cure.
Why Vicks Is Only Appropriate for Teenagers and Adults
Adults and children above 2 years have completely developed airways and lungs, which can endure strong vapours without contraction or swelling.
- Their respiratory system is mature and responds calmly to menthol and camphor.
- Their nervous system is better able to handle camphor’s effect.
Safe for use:
✅ Adults and children above 2 years
Not safe for use:
❌ Babies below 2 years
When using Vicks on older children and adults, apply it only on:
- Chest
- Throat
- Back
Never apply inside or around the nose.
Safe Alternatives for Babies Under 2 Years
Instead of Vicks, doctors recommend:
- Saline nasal drops
- Cool-mist humidifier or steam in the room
- Gentle warm oil massage on chest and feet
- Keeping the baby well hydrated
Final Summary
Vicks VapoRub feel very comforting during colds and coughs in adults and teenagers, but because of the ingredients used in it such as camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil, it is literally harmful and, in some infants, it could be life-threatening and dangerous for children below 2 years. It only generates a cooling sensation and does not clear phlegm. For babies, use safer methods like now Baby rub is also introduced for infants from Vicks and always follow age guidelines on cold medicines.