Treating Painful Boils at Home with Vicks VapoRub Remedies

Treating Boils With Vicks VapoRub

Boils are painful, pus-filled bumps that develop under the skin. They are caused by a bacterial infection of a hair follicle or oil gland. Some of the most common places for boils to occur are on the face, neck, armpits, shoulders, and buttocks. While small boils may heal on their own, larger or more severe boils often need to be treated to prevent the infection from spreading. Using Vicks VapoRub is a popular home remedy for treating boils.

What Is Vicks VapoRub?

Vicks VapoRub is an over-the-counter topical ointment made by the company Procter & Gamble. It contains several active ingredients including:

• Camphor - Provides cooling and numbing relief
• Eucalyptus oil - Natural antiseptic that kills bacteria
• Menthol - Natural analgesic pain reliever
• Turpentine oil - Disinfectant that kills germs

Since its development in the 1890s, Vicks VapoRub has commonly been used to temporarily relieve coughing, congestion, and muscle aches and pains. In more recent years, people have begun using it as a home cure for various skin conditions as well including boils, cold sores, fungal infections, and even acne.

Does Putting Vicks On Boils Help?

There is some scientific evidence that Vicks VapoRub may be effective at treating boils in multiple ways:

Fights Infection

The eucalyptus oil and turpentine oil in VapoRub contain antimicrobial properties. When applied directly to the boil, these ingredients may help kill the bacteria causing the infection. This can accelerate healing time.

Reduces Swelling

Multiple active ingredients in Vicks including camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol provide anti-inflammatory effects. This means they work to reduce redness, inflammation, and swelling around the boil.

Relieves Pain

The cooling, numbing, and analgesic ingredients in Vicks can temporarily relieve pain and itching sensations from the boil when applied topically. This provides symptom relief while you wait for the boil to fully heal.

How to Use Vicks on Boils

If you would like to try using Vicks VapoRub to help treat a boil at home, here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Wash hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water.
2. Clean the area around the boil gently with mild soap and warm water. Do not pop or drain the boil.
3. Dry the area thoroughly with a clean towel.
4. Apply a thick layer of Vicks VapoRub over the boil and surrounding inflamed skin.
5. Cover with a sterile bandage or gauze pad.
6. Leave the VapoRub on for up to 12 hours, reapplying 2-3 times per day if desired.
7. Clean and apply a new bandage daily, washing hands before and after touching boil.
8. Watch for signs of worsening infection and seek medical treatment if necessary.

Tips for Using Vicks on Boils

To get the most out of using Vicks VapoRub for boil treatment, keep these usage tips in mind:

• Always wash hands thoroughly before and after touching or treating the boil.
• Carefully clean and dry skin around the boil each time before applying more VapoRub.
• Use a cotton swab to apply a thick layer of ointment directly over and around the boil.
• Keep Vicks treatment covered with a sterile bandage to prevent spreading germs.
• Avoid picking at or popping the boil as this can worsen infection.
• Stop using Vicks if irritation or discomfort increases and seek medical attention.

What Does Vicks VapoRub Do for Boils?

Applying Vicks VapoRub to the affected area can provide several beneficial effects including:

• Kills bacteria - Disinfecting ingredients attack infection-causing bacteria.
• Reduces swelling and inflammation - Anti-inflammatory components reduce painful swelling.
• Numbs nerve endings - Analgesics like menthol and camphor provide numbing.
• Improves blood flow - Irritants bring fresh blood full of healing cells to area.
• Loosens and softens skin - Petroleum jelly softens hardened skin and pus.
• Protects against reinjury - Covers the area helping prevent friction and picking.

The combination of antibacterial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and protectant properties make Vicks an ideal home remedy to help boils heal faster. Always keep watch for signs the infection is getting worse and see your doctor if that occurs.

Other Home Remedies for Boils

In addition to Vicks VapoRub, some other remedies commonly used at home to help treat boils include:

Warm Compresses

Applying warmth can help draw infection to the surface and soften the skin to allow natural draining. Use a clean washcloth soaked in warm water for 10-15 minutes 3 times daily

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.