If you haven't seen it yet, take a look at Real Madrid's next game. Many of their players repeatedly sniff the bottom of their jerseys during the game. Are they wiping their sweat off? No. They smell Vick VapoRub. But why do they do it?
What is Vick VapoRub?
Vick VapoRub, an ointment widely used as a home remedy to relieve nasal congestion and coughs, has been shown to have multiple benefits for athletes as well. In recent years, scientific studies have investigated the effects of the active ingredients in Vick VapoRub, such as menthol, eucalyptus and camphor, on athletic performance and recovery.
Effects of Vick VapoRub that can help you as a runner
Nasal Congestion Relief
One of the most well-known benefits of Vick VapoRub is its ability to relieve nasal congestion. A study published in the journal"Chest" in 2010 showed that menthol, one of the active ingredients in the ointment, is effective in improving nasal breathing (Tamaoki et al., 2010). Athletes can benefit from this during training and competitions, as proper breathing is essential for good performance.
Muscle pain relief
Vick VapoRub can also help relieve muscle soreness in athletes. A study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management in 2012 found that topical application of 1% menthol had analgesic effects in patients with muscle pain (Galeotti et al., 2012). In addition, camphor, another active ingredient in the ointment, is known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties (Chen et al., 2016). These effects may be useful for athletes during recovery after intense exercise or injury.
Improved blood circulation.
Eucalyptus, another component of Vick VapoRub, has vasodilatory properties, meaning it can help expand blood vessels and improve circulation (Nascimento et al., 2014). Improved blood circulation can be beneficial for athletes, as it can facilitate the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the muscles and speed up the elimination of waste substances. This can improve performance and speed recovery.
Cooling effect
Menthol, present in Vick VapoRub, produces a cooling sensation on the skin when applied topically. A study published in the journal Temperature in 2015 suggests that this cooling sensation may have ergogenic effects, i.e., it may improve physical performance (Stevens et al., 2015). Applying menthol to the skin before physical exercise can help reduce the perception of exertion and delay the onset of fatigue.
Does Vicks VapoRub have contraindications?
Although Vicks VapoRub is a widely used ointment and generally safe for most people, it is important to be aware of some contraindications and precautions when using this product:
Use in children: Vick VapoRub is not recommended for use in children under 2 years of age due to the risk of respiratory tract irritation, which could aggravate congestion and cause breathing difficulties (Paul et al., 2010).
Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the active ingredients in Vick VapoRub, such as menthol, eucalyptus or camphor. If you experience redness, itching, swelling or difficulty breathing after using the product, you should stop using it immediately and consult a doctor.
Skinirritation: Vick VapoRub may cause skin irritation in some people, especially if applied to sensitive areas or open wounds. Be sure to apply the ointment only to intact areas of the skin and avoid contact with eyes, mouth and mucous membranes.
Use during pregnancy and lactation: There are not enough studies to demonstrate the safety of using Vick VapoRub during pregnancy and lactation. If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before using this product.
Drug Interactions: If you are taking medications or have underlying health problems, consult a physician before using Vick VapoRub, as there may be specific interactions or contraindications.
Accidental ingestion: Vick VapoRub is for topical use only and should not be swallowed. Accidental ingestion may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and other symptoms. If product is ingested, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
In summary, while Vick VapoRub may be beneficial for athletes in certain situations, it is important to use it with caution and be aware of contraindications and possible side effects. Always consult a physician or pharmacist if you have any concerns or questions about the use of this product.
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