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Vicks VapoRub for Hemorrhoids: Uses and Precautions

| Modified on Oct 11, 2024
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Vicks VapoRub is a mentholated topical ointment widely known for relieving coughs, congestion, and muscle aches. It contains menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil, which provide a cooling sensation and help relieve symptoms. While not traditionally used for hemorrhoids, some people apply Vicks VapoRub to the affected area for relief from pain and itching. This article explores how Vicks VapoRub can be used for hemorrhoids and important precautions to consider.

Benefits of Vicks VapoRub for Hemorrhoids

Vicks VapoRub may offer several benefits for individuals with hemorrhoids:

  1. Cooling Sensation: The menthol in Vicks VapoRub provides a cooling effect that can help soothe itching and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.
  2. Pain Relief: The combination of menthol and camphor can have a mild numbing effect, helping to alleviate pain in the affected area.
  3. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Eucalyptus oil in Vicks VapoRub has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and irritation.

How to Use Vicks VapoRub for Hemorrhoids

If you decide to use Vicks VapoRub for hemorrhoids, follow these steps:

  1. Clean the Area: Gently clean the affected area with warm water and mild soap. Pat dry with a soft towel.
  2. Apply a Small Amount: Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to a cotton swab or your fingertip. Gently apply it to the external hemorrhoidal area, avoiding any broken skin or mucous membranes.
  3. Monitor for Reactions: Observe for any signs of irritation, burning, or discomfort. If any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use immediately and wash the area thoroughly.

Precautions and Considerations

While some individuals find relief using Vicks VapoRub for hemorrhoids, it is important to consider the following precautions:

  • Avoid Broken Skin: Do not apply Vicks VapoRub to broken or irritated skin, as the menthol and camphor can cause burning and discomfort.
  • Not for Internal Use: Vicks VapoRub is intended for external use only and should not be applied internally or on mucous membranes.
  • Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you have concerns about using Vicks VapoRub for hemorrhoids or if symptoms persist, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment options.
  • Possible Sensitivity: Some individuals may be sensitive to menthol, camphor, or eucalyptus oil. Test a small amount on your skin before applying it to the hemorrhoidal area.

In conclusion, Vicks VapoRub may provide temporary relief for hemorrhoid symptoms, particularly in reducing itching and discomfort. However, it should be used with caution and as part of a broader approach to hemorrhoid management.

Continue reading for feedback from our readers who have tried this Vicks for hemorrhoids!

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12 User Reviews

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Posted by M (New Jersey) on 11/21/2020
 ★★★★★

I just had the biggest hemorrhoid ever. I couldn't close my legs or walk or sit or lay down or stand, or even wear underwear and tighter pants. It was the size of a peach pit and protruded out from my cheeks. I wanted to scream. I desperately tried ACV, sitz baths, castor oil, iodine, aloe. The castor oil soothed it a little, but didn't reduce the size of this raging behemoth. ACV didn't do anything and diluted iodine just burned. Aloe went inside my hole by accident and really stung inside all night long. The sitz baths felt good while doing them, but when I dried off, it was back to normal for ol rhoidy. Vicks is the only thing that has soothed it within a minute of application, and decreased the size by half overnight. I was able to walk, sit, and wear underwear again! In three days it went from the size of a peach pit to a small peanut. I could cry; I am so appreciative.

NOTE: I originally had a can of knock-off Vicks from Amazon (bought a while ago) that did not work at all. Why? It did not have turpentine. Turpentine is the key ingredient. I found that out from my sister and immediately went to the store and bought Vicks, and that was the key. A lot of store brands comparable to Vicks do have turpentine, but you have to check those ingredients!

Replied by GertJr
(Madison)
11/22/2020

You should keep some Witch Hazel (near the rubbing alcohol in the store) on hand. It is an astringent and can reduce hemmorhoids, for awhile at least. I keep it in the fridge, the cold feels so good. For a large rhoid, soak a cotton ball or wad of gauze with it, place it on the rhoid and see if your cheeks won't hold it in place because then you can put on underwear and keep it in place for a long time.

Love real health news
(UT)
11/22/2020

Be sure to get the Witch Hazel withOUT alcohol.. you have to read the label.. I have found some in some health food stores and on Amazon.

Replied by Ingo
(CA)
11/22/2020

OMG, I hope one of these remedies work, I'm in so much pain I can't sleep. There's no position where it doesn't hurt like hell, it's been like this for weeks. I'm terrified of surgery and have no insurance either, and I don't want to become addicted to painkillers. Hope I don't have to spend the rest of my life like this.

Replied by Charity
(Faithville, Us)
11/22/2020

At walmart ,near the feminine pads is a section with cream for yeast infections. Next to it is a cream called vagicaine. It numbs the area. Buy some witch hazel to shrink the hemorrhoid. Buy some yeast cream to put in the rectum just in case you have some imbalance there. Buy some store brand colace to get rid of any constipation. Buy a freezer gel pack to ice the area. Buy two so one can freeze while you use the other. If you are miserable, get in the tub, drink 16 ounces of water and lemon, orange or pineapple. The bath water will trick your brain into thinking the pain is coming from a larger area and shrink the signals. Blessings, Charity. Sit on a core ball.....

Replied by Beverlie G
(Edmonton AB)
11/22/2020

Look up Dr. Eric Berg on Youtube. Bile Salts (aka Ox Bile) will help in many ways to calm digestive tract, soften stool, encourage healthy bacteria, decongest liver and much more.

Replied by Steve East
(EC's Facebook Page)
11/22/2020

@Ingo

Piles are caused usually by the parasite Pinworm! Now pinworm is one of the hardest to remove ... but a course of Clark Fx ( the 3 herbs cloves, wormwood and green Hull of Black Walnut) .... dose 3 times a day for 30 days ..then weekly maintenance doses along with a more alkaline diet! Now Parasites carry virus and bacteria ... so beware possible infections during treatment! Read Dr Hulda Clark!

Replied by Helaku P.
(EC's Facebook Page)
11/22/2020

@Ingo,

I had hemorrhoids, it was caused by food with lack of fibers: mashed potatoes, tomato paste, white rice, etc. Cooked food can soften the fiber and make transit harder. Avoid or limit coffee, gluten is harsh on intestines, it makes them porous.

It all went away, but : use hemorrhoid cream, do not use toilet paper they are too harsh, I use reusable cloth. Avoid walking too much during crisis if possible it hurts.

Replied by GertJr
(Madison)
11/23/2020

I am really concerned with all these people who equate hemorrhoids with lack of fiber. I have ibsd, never constipated, and the diarrhea will sure trigger hemis. Adding fiber just makes it worse in my case. And don't overlook the fact that ibsd or constipation can result from factors beyond your control, such as medical conditions. I had radiation twice in my life, once while still in the womb. Since I have done everything I can do for the last 60 years to overcome the diarrhea and nothing has worked, I conclude that the radiation, beyond my control, is a factor. I also had several concussions as a young child and head trauma is also a factor. Any remedies for that, and I'll listen.

Charity
(Faithville, Us)
11/23/2020

Hi GertJr,

I am currently studying to override original programming from womb to at 7. Dr. Joe Dispenza and Dr. Lipton put some keys in my hand and I'm not sure yet which doors they unlock but I will be trying them out. One is that your subconscious mind is your body and is 95 percent of the brain you live in. 5 percent is your reasoning brain that does research, watches movies and get inspired but connot change the 95% except in the hypno state 1/2 before sleep and 1/2 hour before waking. That has to be done intentionally or it will never happen. My issues from trauma are my body is addicted to cortisol and I need to give it more endorphins from good vibrations to override that addiction to change it's energy source. Fear or faith doors are what they are . Fear stops digestion. I just learned this in the last 10 days of studies, so I have lots of application to figure out. My other limit is I am a Jesus freak so I have to be careful to not get involved in occult issues while I am trying to heal myself. I am BODY MIND & SPIRIT and can't heal without all three areas addressed. Loveyou GertJr, sorry if my colace comment set you off. I had C-Diff for over half a year battle and couldn't eat a cracker without a toilet nearby. Normally I need Ox bile daily and kefir or all movement stops in my intestines. Running from my trauma.

Replied by GertJr
(Madison)
11/23/2020

Oh, Charity, you didn't set me off. I just wanted to open people's minds to other possibilities, in my clumsy way. For example, how many men comment that hard stool is the only factor. They've never had a hemi pop out as they were giving birth, now, have they? Just wanted to point out that there are many ways to get this problem.

Replied by Charity
(faithville, Us)
11/23/2020

Hi GertJr, I have had plenty of clumsy of my own, No worries : ) Love, Charity

Replied by Art
(California)
11/24/2020
2311 posts

GertJr,

With diarrhea, hemorrhoids can be caused by sitting on the toilet frequently for extended periods of time as you wait for the diarrhea to stop. The hard seat significantly reduces normal blood flow to the area which can cause hemorrhoids.

Have you looked into LDN or high dose melatonin(HDM) for the IBS-D. Low dose melatonin may be useful for IBS-C.

Art

Replied by GertJr
(Madison)
11/25/2020

Art, no I haven't heard that high dose melatonin could help. Is the help temporary or more permanent? And, what dosage are we talking about here? I'm willing to try that. I had looked at the LDN some time ago and don't remember why I didn't try it, is it by prescription? That's usually the only thing that stops me from trying something. Thanks again for all your help.

Michaela
(New Zealand)
03/06/2022

Hi, GertJr. I was reading down the thread looking for treatments for my daughter, who has just had a baby, and I saw your reference to IBS. Everybody is different, but I had IBS badly for 20 years. One day three years ago I decided to try lower-carb eating to lose weight, as an unexpected, but much appreciated, side effect of going off all grain products (bread, baked goods, etc) my IBS stopped, never to return again! I find if I have too much fruit, I get a little tummy ache. I have finally figured out all these years later, that eating a grain-free diet while watching my fruit consumption has sorted it. I'm not saying it will work for everyone, but it worked for me when I thought I would have to live with IBS for the rest of my life. All the best.

Replied by Art
(California)
11/25/2020
2311 posts

The LDN is the one to try first as it has a fairly good track record with IBS/Crohn's disease and although it is helpful for many other diseases, it has shown the most benefit with IBS. The melatonin would be the second choice as there is a chance it can exacerbate the diarrhea.

LDN is by prescription, but it is very mild and slow acting. I've used it in the past and it did not give me any problems.

Art

Replied by Charity
(Faithville, Us)
12/05/2020

I was thinking about my daughter in law when I went to bed, she is very ill right now with pneumonia and covid and I woke up and saw a large white cup and felt like it had slippery elm tea in it. I didn't know that was a tea but I do take the herb for digestion issues. It works on mucus, sore throat, burns and the pre and pro biotics and many other things if you google it. Good for crohns, IBS, hemorrhoids

Charity
(faithville, Us)
12/09/2020

Her ( my son's wife) oxygen levels have risen and they took her off that today and now they are waiting to see how well she can walk, before releasing her from hospital. She had other health issues prior. I asked a friend to pray and he put her on a prayer chain. I pray thankful prayers. (It is finished, praise the Lord) I can't speak into my families lives because a prophet is of no effect among his own. Light is coming into all the dark places and truth will rise up and overtake every hidden thing. Thank you for your prayers and concerns. Blessings, Charity

Vicks
Posted by Gert (Al) on 06/25/2015
 ★★★★★

I tried ACV for hemmies, didn't help. Also did witch hazel, which acts an an astingent and will shrink them but doesn't last very long. cool it in the fridge first, feels good. What works best for me is vaporub. Burns at first, but really heals them up. I, too, have ibs and the Apple Cider Vinegar didn't matter either way with that. Nothing I have tried has stopped my ibs-d, ever. I have had it since I was a preschooler and now I'm pushing 60.

Vicks
Posted by Isabel (Tampa, FL) on 09/02/2014
 ★★★★★

Last week my hemorrhoids were very bad, spend more than $30.00 on pH and did nothing for me. Somebody told me to use vick vaporub, the pain and the swelling were gone within 1 hour.

Replied by Reina
(Miami)
10/21/2016
★★★★★

Less than one hour, pain, itching, swelling, uncomfortability from runner's hemorrhoids gone! YES!

Vicks
Posted by Diane (Streetsboro, Ohio) on 01/08/2009
 ★★★★★

When I had my first child I had a terrible case of hemmoroids. I was told to apply Vicks Vapor Rub to them by a nurse's aid.(Yes..an aid! She said her grandmother told her about this) Anyhow,when I was discharged I went home and tried it. The cooling effect of the menthol cured the itching and after about a week they actually did shrink and go away!

Replied by Deehee
(Usa)
09/06/2013
★☆☆☆☆

Vicks set my rear on fire and made my 'roid bleed (it wasn't bleeding before). Do not use Vicks on genital areas if you are sensitive to menthol or camphor.

Replied by Doris
(Manteca, Ca)
04/20/2015
★★★★★

Vicks worked for me; 4 day of H never helped but 2 days of Vicks and it cured it. I even had a hard BM after and no return of roid

Replied by Milagros
(Syracuse, Ny)
02/04/2016
★★★★★

I've been having hemorrhoids a lot since I'm always constipated (bad diet), anyways I read in several places about the Vicks and I was hesitant to try it, but I was so much in pain and nothing else was working that decided to try it. Thanks to everyone that gave this advice the pain is gone I just started today so hopefully it will also help them to go away(fingers cross).

Vicks
Posted by Vella (Albany, NY) on 12/07/2008
 ★★★★★

I've recently bought organic ACV and have been drinking a cup with luke warm water every day for almost one week. I can't say that I've experienced any noticeable effects yet, but I do like the tangy, mildy sweet taste of it. A couple of times I heated the water a bit more and added raw honey to satisfy my sweet tooth. For me that's like having a cup of tea and is very enjoyable.

I've suffered miserably with hemorroid flareups for the last 10 years (since the birth of my 3rd child). For the last couple of years I've been having a great deal of bleeding in addition to the severe pain. I've been putting off the surgery suggested to me by several doctors and decided to look for alternative methods to manage and hopefully cure this painful condition.

I tried Vick's as suggested on this site when I was out of Prep H and plus I felt that it has been losing its efficacy on me. Vick's was like a wonder drug and shrunk the swelling way faster and more effectively than Prep H. I had already been applying aloe gel as I was aware of its healing and soothing properties. The combination of the 2 made me feel 100% better. My only problem now is that the protrusions return after each BM. I'm hoping that eventually my body will heal to the point that they don't return. I used to like to do strength training (I'm a woman and was only using 5-10 pound weights) but had to abandon it because of the pressure it put on my roids and caused me to have really bad flareups after each workout. I would love to be able to return to strength training.

Bye bye and God Bless!

Replied by Yael Mor
(Israel)
10/12/2016

Most of my life I had bee avoiding eating products of white flour. A little haemmorrhoids I could massage away with some natural ointment.

And then I spent Rosh Hashanah with my grandchildren. Eating white chala very evening, and honey cake whenever I got hungry. Back at home: really and epidemic of hemmorrhoids! Now I am going through all the list of natural remedies to heal them away.

Why I reply to this post? You might heal fast and completely if you avoid bread or any other bakery of white flour, or even any other flour for a time. Also stay away from barley and quaker oats.

I would be glad to hear whether my advice was of use.

Please let me know.

Yael Mor

Replied by Reina
(Miami)
10/21/2016

I knew it! I had not had a flareup in years; of runner's hemorrhoids. well I ate raw oats (w/grapefruit juice as the 'milk') because it gives me a lot of power to run and have been suffering a major flare up. NO MAS! Thank you for your insightful advice!

Vicks
Posted by Texan (Seattle) on 12/09/2006
 ★★★★★

Vick's VapoRub cures Hemorrhoids. WORKED FOR ME!

Vicks
Posted by Harry (Tucson, AZ) on 10/16/2005
 ★★★★★

After suffering with hemorrhoids for years, I took to my sister's advice. Apply a little mentholatum every day!! I have not suffered since. Maybe not for everyone, but sure was effective for me.

Replied by Anthony
(Newmarket, Ontario, Canada)
07/29/2013

i tried it. It's a cool feel. I use vick vapor rub, it has mentholatum in it

Vicks
Posted by Anonymous (USA)
★★★★★

vicks vapor rub cures hemorrhoids fast! but will burn ! but worth it



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