I have always used Vicks Vaporub with our boys when they have a cold coming on. I would rub it on their chests, back and bottoms of feet. But, after reading the ingredients in this product, I decided to try and whip up a batch of my own; a more natural vapour rub.

To make this vapour rub, you will need:

1/2 cup (100g) coconut oil
1/4 cup (55g) shea butter
2 TBSP (30g) beeswax
essential oils

To make this vapour rub:

Add the coconut oil, shea butter and beeswax to a microwavable glass jug or a double boiler.

Melt, while stirring and mixing well.

Add the essential oils and pour into containers.

As I was using this on my kids who are both over 10, I used: 10 drops eucalyptus, 5 drops rosemary, 5 drops lavender, 10 drops peppermint. For a kids version, check to see what essential oils can be used safely for the age of your kids. For a stronger version for adults, you could double the amount of drops of essential oils.

I poured some of my vapour rub into a small round tin and some into small lip gloss containers for easy use. I find these little sticks can be put into my handbag and rubbed on the children’s feet when needed.

Store in a dark, cool place for up to 12 months.

Other essential oils you could use a mixture of are:

Eucalyptus – antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant. Be careful when using on children under 10.
Melaleuca – antimicrobial, expectorant and antiseptic.
Peppermint – helps open nasal passages. Avoid when pregnant and on babies and small children under 10.
Lemon – stimulates imune function, but take care if using in sunlight.
Lavender – antihistamine, antiseptic and antimicrobial.
Rosemary – helps open nasal passages. Safe for babies over 2 years. Avoid while pregnant.
Pine – decongestant and antimicrobial qualities.
Basil – helps open nasal passages and an antiseptic.
Thyme – antiseptic that helps boost immune function. Avoid if you have high blood pressure. Do not use more than 10 drops per batch.

Some examples are:

20 drops eucalyptus, 10 drops rosemary, 10 drops lavender, 10 drops melaleuca, 10 drops lemon
20 drops each rosemary, lemon and eucalyptus
20 drops each rosemary, peppermint and eucalyptus
20 drops eucalyptus, 20 drops peppermint, 10 drops basil and 10 drops pine
15 drops each lavender, rosemary, melaleuca and eucalyptus

If you are looking for a quick and simple recipe that requires no heating, why not try this:

1 TBSP coconut oil, 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil, 5 drops peppermint essential oil and 3 drops lavender essential oil. Mix well in a glass jar.

Homemade Vapour Rub

This homemade vapour rub is easy to make with only four ingredients and is a great natural alternative.

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Ingredients

1/2 cup 100g coconut oil
1/4 cup 55g shea butter
2 TBSP 30g beeswax
essential oils - lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary

Instructions

Add the coconut oil, shea butter and beeswax to a microwavable glass jug or a double boiler.
Melt, while stirring and mixing well.
Add the essential oils and pour into containers.
As I was using this on my kids, I used: 10 drops eucalyptus, 5 drops rosemary, 5 drops lavender, 10 drops peppermint. For a stronger version for adults, you could double the amount of drops of essential oils.
I poured some of my vapour rub into a small round tin and some into small lip gloss containers for easy use. I find these little sticks can be put into my handbag and rubbed on the children's feet when needed.
Store in a dark, cool place for up to 12 months.

Notes

If you are looking for a quick and simple recipe that requires no heating, why not try this:
1 TBSP coconut oil, 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil, 5 drops peppermint essential oil and 3 drops lavender essential oil. Mix well in a glass jar.

Tried this recipe? Share a pic on Instagram#simplelivingcreativelearning

Other Homemade Products

I created a printable with the blue labels that I made for my vapour rub. You can grab them by clicking the link below.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website.

Homemade Vapour Rub

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

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