This Vicks Foot Trick Works While You Sleep | Dr. Mandell

About this video

• Video Title: This Vicks Foot Trick Works While You Sleep | Dr. Mandell
• Channel: motivationaldoc
• Speakers: Dr. Alan Mandell
• Duration: 00:05:26

Overview

This video explains the home remedy of applying Vicks VapoRub to the soles of the feet to alleviate nighttime coughs and congestion. Dr. Mandell details the active ingredients in Vicks, the physiology of the feet's nerve endings, and how stimulating these nerves can influence the brainstem to suppress the cough reflex. He also provides instructions on how to apply the remedy for maximum effectiveness and advises consulting a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

Key takeaways

• Vicks VapoRub Ingredients: Contains menthol (cooling, helps with irritation, eases breathing), camphor (cough suppressant, decongestant), and eucalyptus (anti-inflammatory, opens airways).
• Traditional Application: Usually applied to the chest or neck, but avoiding direct application under the nose to prevent irritation.
• Unconventional Foot Application: Applying Vicks to the soles of the feet is presented as a remedy for nighttime coughs.
• Physiology of Feet: The soles of the feet are rich in nerve endings that can be stimulated.
• Mechanism of Action: Stimulating foot nerves with Vicks sends signals to the brainstem (medulla oblongata), which controls involuntary functions like coughing, potentially inhibiting the cough reflex. This pathway is proposed to be faster than systemic absorption.
• Application Method: Apply a generous amount to the soles of the feet, put on socks, and do this 15-30 minutes before bed.
• Frequency: Can be used nightly as needed until symptoms improve.
• Disclaimer: Individual results may vary, and consulting a healthcare professional for persistent symptoms is recommended.