Can Vicks Vaporub Really Kill Scabies? Discover the Truth

Scabies is a skin condition caused by tiny mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. It often makes you itch a lot and feel uncomfortable. Usually, you treat it with medicines like permethrin cream or ivermectin tablets.

But, some people look for alternative remedies, like Vicks VapoRub, which is usually used for cough and congestion relief. So, it makes you wonder: can Vicks VapoRub actually kill scabies?

In this article, we’ll explore the potential effectiveness of Vicks VapoRub as a treatment for scabies, analyzing both anecdotal evidence and scientific studies to determine if it can provide real relief or not.

What is Scabies?

Scabies is caused by the infestation of the skin by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the top layer of the skin to live and lay eggs.

This results in intense itching and a pimple-like skin rash. It spreads through direct, prolonged, skin-to-skin contact with a person who has scabies.

Common Symptoms and Causes

Common symptoms of scabies include intense itching, especially at night, and a rash that resembles small red bumps or blisters. The most frequently affected areas include the webs of the fingers, wrists, elbows, armpits, waist, and groin.

The itching is caused by an allergic reaction to the mites, their eggs, and their waste. Scabies are most commonly spread through direct, prolonged skin-to-skin contact, which makes it particularly prevalent in crowded living conditions or among people in close physical contact, like families, sexual partners, or nursing home residents.

What is Vicks Vaporub?

Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment traditionally used to relieve cough and congestion. It contains active ingredients like camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil, which provide a cooling sensation that can temporarily relieve minor aches and pains.

Ingredients of Vicks Vaporub

1. Camphor
2. Eucalyptus Oil
3. Menthol
4. Thymol
5. Nutmeg Oil
6. Cedarleaf Oil
7. Petrolatum (petroleum jelly)
8. Turpentine Oil
9. Terpinol

Does Vicks Vaporub Kill Scabies?

No, Vicks VapoRub does not kill scabies. While Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients like camphor and menthol that can provide a cooling sensation and may temporarily relieve itching, there is no scientific evidence that it works to kill the Sarcoptes scabiei mites responsible for scabies.

Medical treatments like permethrin cream or oral ivermectin are the best ways to treat and get rid of scabies. If you think you have scabies, it’s important to see a doctor for the right diagnosis and treatment.

Pros and Cons of Using Vicks Vaporub for Scabies

While Vicks VapoRub may not be an effective treatment for scabies, there are some potential pros and cons to using it as a remedy.

Pros

1. Temporary Relief: Vicks VapoRub may provide temporary relief from itching due to its menthol and camphor content. This can make the condition somewhat more bearable while waiting for other treatments to take effect.
2. Non-Prescription: Since Vicks VapoRub is an over-the-counter product, it does not require a visit to a healthcare provider or a prescription.

Cons

1. Ineffectiveness in Killing Mites: There’s no scientific evidence to support the claim that Vicks VapoRub can kill the Sarcoptes scabiei mites responsible for scabies. Therefore, it should not be considered a stand-alone treatment for the condition.
2. Risk of Delay in Proper Treatment: Relying on Vicks VapoRub for scabies may delay proper medical treatment which can make things worse or even spread to others.
3. Skin Irritation: The ingredients in Vicks VapoRub, like camphor and menthol, can potentially cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people, especially when applied to broken skin caused by intense scratching.
4. Not a Cure: While it may provide symptom relief, Vicks VapoRub does not cure scabies. Medical treatments like permethrin or ivermectin are required to eradicate the infestation.

Alternative Treatments That Actually Work for Scabies

If you’re looking for alternative remedies for scabies, there are some options that have been proven to be effective in treating the condition.

1. Permethrin Cream

• Description: A topical cream that contains chemicals that kill scabies mites and eggs.
• Usage: Generally applied to the entire body from the neck down and left on for 8-14 hours.
• Effectiveness: High; one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for scabies.
• Side Effects: Possible mild skin irritation or burning sensation.

2. Ivermectin

• Description: An oral medication used to treat parasitic infections, including scabies.
• Usage: Usually taken as a single dose, with a repeat dose 1-2 weeks later.
• Effectiveness: Very effective, particularly for crusted scabies or when topical treatments haven’t worked.
• Side Effects: Nausea, dizziness, mild rash.

3. Benzyl Benzoate

• Description: A topical lotion used to treat scabies and lice.
• Usage: Applied to the entire body, typically left on for 24 hours before washing off.
• Effectiveness: Effective but can cause skin irritation.
• Side Effects: Skin irritation, dryness.

4. Sulfur Ointments

• Description: Ointments containing sulfur, are used as an alternative treatment for scabies.
• Usage: Applied to the entire body and used consecutively for several days.
• Effectiveness: Effective, especially for infants and pregnant women as it’s considered safer.
• Side Effects: Unpleasant odor, potential skin dryness.

5. Crotamiton

• Description: A topical cream or lotion with antipruritic properties.
• Usage: Applied to the affected areas once or twice daily for two to five days.
• Effectiveness: Moderately effective, primarily provides itch relief.
• Side Effects: Possible skin irritation.

6. Lindane

• Description: An older treatment option; a topical lotion or shampoo used for scabies.
• Usage: Applied to the entire body below the neck and left on for 8 hours before washing off.
• Effectiveness: Effective but not commonly used due to potential neurotoxicity risks.
• Side Effects: Risk of seizures and other neurological issues, should be used as a last resort.

Conclusion

While Vicks VapoRub might help with the itching from scabies for a short time, it won’t get rid of the mites. Treatments like permethrin cream or oral ivermectin are the best and most proven ways to cure scabies.

If you think you have scabies, see a doctor for the right diagnosis and treatment. Don’t just use products like Vicks VapoRub, as this can make symptoms worse and spread the infestation.

FAQ

Can scabies go away on its own?

No, scabies will not go away on its own. Without appropriate treatment, the mites that cause scabies will continue to live and reproduce on your skin, leading to ongoing symptoms and potential complications. It’s important to seek medical treatment, like permethrin cream or oral ivermectin, to effectively eradicate the mites and cure the infestation.

Does hot water kill scabies on the skin?

No, hot water does not kill scabies on the skin. While hot water can be effective in killing mites on clothing, bedding, and other washable items, it is not suitable for treating scabies on your skin.

How long does it take neem to kill scabies?

Neem, being a natural remedy, may take several weeks to show results in killing scabies mites. It’s generally used in the form of neem oil, soap, or cream and needs to be applied regularly, often daily.

Resources

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). About Scabies – Resources for Health Professionals. [https://www.cdc.gov/scabies/about/index.html]
2. American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). (n.d.). Scabies Diagnose & Treatment: [https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/scabies-treatment]
3. Medical News Today. 12 home remedies for scabies. [https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321335]