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Vicks Vaporub Heals Sore Heels

People complain about dry, cracked hands, especially if they have been washing dishes. What about dry, sore heels? What can you do for them?

Have you looked at your heels lately? Most people don’t. But at this time of year there is a good chance they are dry and cracked like the rest of your skin. You may even have sore heels because of the fissures in your skin. This reader reports that an old-fashioned remedy for congestion was helpful for heels. 

Vicks VapoRub for Sore Heels:

Q. You have often mentioned unusual uses for Vicks VapoRub. I decided to try it on my cracked heels. For the past three years I have applied every possible cream, but nothing worked till I decided to use Vicks. Amazingly, in a couple of applications deep and painful cracks healed. The only drawback: the cracks return if I stop.

A. Vicks VapoRub contains many essential oils in a base of petroleum jelly. If plain petrolatum (such as Vaseline) doesn’t help your cracked heels, the essential oils may be playing a role.

Another reader wrote:

“I cured the fungus on my nails with Vicks VapoRub. Two nails had been affected since I was a teenager.

“I also put it on my calluses and easily removed them. After a shower I apply the Vicks to the spots that need it and put on thick white socks.”

Others have reported using Vicks to remove ticks, heal saddle sores on horses and discourage kittens from scratching.

We offer a *Free* Guide to Unique Uses for Vicks. You may also find our eGuide to Favorite Home Remedies of interest. It provides lots common household products like vinegar or baking soda as helpful remedies.

More Remedies for Sore Heels:

Here is a link to an article that will surprise you:

Coconut Oil Soothes Rough Heels

Soap in Socks Relieves Heel Pain

Share your own solution for sore heels in the comment section below.

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About the Author
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist who has dedicated his career to making drug information understandable to consumers. His best-selling book, The People’s Pharmacy, was published in 1976 and led to a syndicated newspaper column, syndicated public radio show and web site. In 2006, Long Island University awarded him an honorary doctorate as “one of the country's leading drug experts for the consumer.”.
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