Vicks VapoRub was developed in the 1890s by pharmacist Lunsford Richardson in Greensboro, North Carolina, inspired by a need to help his sick son, who suffered from croup. Initially called Richardson's Croup and Pneumonia Cure Salve, it incorporated menthol and other soothing ingredients blended in petroleum jelly. The product was renamed Vicks VapoRub in 1911 in honor of Richardson's brother-in-law, Dr. Joshua Vick, who assisted him in accessing a laboratory for its production [1][3][4]. 

The salve gained significant popularity during the 1918 flu epidemic, with sales soaring from $900,000 to $2.9 million in just one year [5]. Over the decades, Vicks has remained a trusted name, evolving from its original use to address various ailments, including cough, colds, and even nail fungus [5]. It continues to be recognized as a leading cough and cold brand worldwide [6].

What's the story behind Vicks Vapour Rub?

Follow Up Recommendations

Related Content You May Like