Hopefully, the cold and flu season won’t hit your home this year. But just in case, having a natural vapor rub on hand is a great home remedy. It’s safe for both adults and kids and really helps clear up congestion!
I used to rely on regular Vicks Vapor Rub and its baby version during cold season. That was until I discovered that it contains petroleum… not exactly something you want on your skin or your kids’. So, I started making my own simple homemade vapor rub. You can find out more about the concerns with petroleum jelly elsewhere.
Growing up, that familiar blue bottle was a household staple. Now that I’m a parent, I get why. There aren’t many options for treating colds and coughs in kids and babies, and vapor rub really helps ease the coughing and congestion that can mess up everyone’s sleep. Sleep, after all, is crucial for getting and staying well!
Don’t let the ingredient list stop you from trying this recipe. If you don’t have everything you need or don’t want to prepare the salve, just mix the essential oils with coconut oil—it works nearly as well!
Fortunately, as I delved into DIY natural products, more companies have started offering natural versions too. I found a ready-made natural vapor rub for those who might not have all the ingredients. There’s even a version specially designed for babies and children. I haven’t seen it in stores near me yet, but you might have luck at a Whole Foods or a local natural health store.
If you’re making this for babies or young children, ensure the essential oils are suitable for their age. I’m really cautious with essential oils, preferring to use kid-safe lines to simplify choosing the right ones. The Sniffle Stopper blend is quite similar to my mix.
For a gentler kid-safe version, I sometimes use just four drops each of eucalyptus and fir oils, skipping the rest. Check the list of essential oils along with their uses and safety precautions. Many oils aren’t safe for babies or young kids, so always dilute them properly. The natural vapor rub is safe for ages 3 and up with the adjustments included in the recipe. You can also apply the vapor rub to the soles of their feet (for ages 3-6) for a milder option.
The baby-safe version uses a .5% dilution with gentler oils, considered safe for babies 6 months and older. If you prefer, you can use half the amount with just 2 drops of each essential oil.
Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbs or essential oils on young children.
Alternatively, you can make this recipe with herbs by infusing the oil with 1 tablespoon of each herb in a double boiler over medium heat for 2 hours.
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Lauren Jefferis, who is board certified in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. Remember, this isn’t personal medical advice. It’s best to consult your doctor.
What are your go-to remedies for tackling congestion and cough? Have you ever made your own vapor rub? Share your thoughts below!
