Many of the ingredients in Vicks VapoRub that help ease frustrating cold symptoms are the same ones that may offer itch relief from mosquito bites. In a 2020 study published in PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, researchers conducted focus groups with women in Colombia regarding their knowledge and personal opinions about methods of protection against the mosquito-borne Zika virus. When asked about bite prevention and itch-relief measures implemented in the household, Vicks VapoRub was frequently mentioned. “I use Vicks VapoRub. I apply [it] on my skin. As it contains menthol, mosquitoes don’t approach,” one participant noted.
Because of menthol’s cooling and numbing effects, it can also be an effective form of bug-bite relief, explained dermatologist Dr. Neal Schultz to PopSugar. But menthol isn’t the only ingredient in Vicks VapoRub that can soothe mosquito-bitten skin. Thymol and camphor appear to have this superpower as well. Camphor, in particular, may also be effective at warding off mosquitos in the first place. General practitioner Dr. Pauline Jose told Byrdie that camphor is derived from the Cinnamomum camphora tree, which is closely related to the species of tree from which cinnamon is derived. With a strong scent, camphor can aid in keeping mosquitos at arm’s length.