Let’s face it, getting bit by mosquitoes and putting up with the itchy welts is a pain.
There’s plenty of commercial insect repellants and sprays that can help make you unappealing to pesky mosquitoes. But if you’re caught unprepared and don’t have any on hand, here’s an equally effective method using Vicks VapoRub.
How to use it: Just rub a little on your skin and clothes. You don’t have to rub it all over so just focus on dabbing it on your ankles, wrists, neck, and inner elbows.
Why it works: The VapoRub contains Cedarleaf oil. Cedarleaf oil is a natural insect repellant.
And if its too late to prevent mosquito bites, rubbing VapoRub on the bumps will also relieve itching.
Why? Because the itching is caused by the anti-bloodclotting agent from the mosquitoes stinger (this is so that your blood will keep flowing enough for the mosquito to have some. ummm yummy.). The menthol and camphor in the VapoRub will boost blood circulation and help break up the agent, thereby relieving you of the annoying itch.
[Note: If you don't have VapoRub on hand, other menthol/camphor rubs and ointments like Tiger Balm, Watkins Menthol Camphor Ointment, etc etc will work just as well. Just check the ingredients label for menthol and/or camphor.]
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This is such an awesome tip!!! I’ve used it last summer, and I didn’t feel my mosquito bites one bit. What I like to do is put a small bandaid over the place I rubbed the VapoRub on so it doesn’t get all over the place. Thanks for saving me from itching myself till I bleed!!!
[...] Vick’s Vapo-Rub. Cedarleaf oil, an active ingredient in Vick’s Vapo-Rub, is a natural mosquito-repellant. [...]
My husband and 2 sons are going camping (scout camp) in mosquito heaven next week and I am heading to stock up on Vick’s VapoRub. What a great tip, I am so excited that those harsh sprays will not have to be used.
My husband is also excited that he will not have to hang the little Lavender clumps all around the tent, way too girlie even if it does work.
is it okey to use for pregnant woman
Hi Narcy, most people say that Vicks Vaporub is okay for use when pregnant, including many women who’ve used it during their pregnancy.
However, the official product warning on the Vicks website is: “If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use.”
So you might want to ask your doctor first.
I’ve never heard anything about adverse affects on pregnant women, but personally I use a a mosquito trap that uses counterflow technology to protect my property. Works like a charm and I’d definitely recommend looking into it if you ever get tired of trying home remedies like did!
An excellent idea – two birds with one stone! Repel the mosquito’s while keeping your airways wide open to enjoy the fresh air. Definitely something I will be considering on my next holiday.