Last winter we went through our typical rounds of stuffy noses, congested heads, and sleep-depriving coughs. For the most part, symptom relief was the focus, so I raided the medicine cabinet to see what I could find. Over-the-counter medicines do their job for some symptom relief, but what about the nights when noses are congested or coughs interrupt sleep? I found Watkins Menthol Camphor Ointment. A friend had suggested it in place of Vicks Vapor Rub and gave me a tin to try. I have been using it since.
About Watkins Menthol Camphor Ointment
The first thing that I noticed about Watkins Menthol Camphor Ointment is that it smells just like Vicks (Vapor Rub) but not as strong. When I put my nose near the ointment, I can smell the menthol but it doesn’t knock me to the floor. I thought that this was a plus for use with children.
The tin can be opened by twisting and pulling the metal lid off fairly easily by an adult. The size that I have is a 4 1/8 ounce tin. This size product retails for $8.99 on the manufacturer’s website.
The ointment is less greasy than the common menthol rubs on the market. It comes in a round metal tin and you won’t get your entire hand greased up trying to dip in for an application. The texture is smooth and fairly thick. It reminds me of a lip balm that has been softened. Grazing the surface with a few fingers is the general way to start the application. I tend to need a few dips to get the right amount.
Watkins Menthol Camphor Ointment can be used for the following (as listed on container)
Chest Colds, Coughs, and Colds: Apply a thick layer on throat and chest and cover with a warm cloth if desired. Leave enough room for the vapors to reach the mouth and nose area. Up to three applications may be made each day, or as advised by a doctor. Children under 2 need a doctor’s consultation before use.
Muscular Aches: Apply ointment to the affected area 2-4 times per day. Use is recommended for children over 2 and adults. Consult a doctor before using on children under 2.
Minor Burns, Scalds, Cuts, and Bruises: Spread the ointment on a clean cloth and cover the affected area.
Ingredients: Menthol and Camphor
Cautions
*For EXTERNAL USE ONLY
*Do not place in mouth or nostrils
*Avoid contact with eyes
*Do not use on serious puncture wounds or serious burns
*Do not apply to wounds or damaged skin
*Consult physician if condition worsens or persists for more than 7 days
*Consult a physician if cough is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache
*Do not bandage tightly
*Call poison control or consult a physician in case of accidental ingestion
Watkins Menthol Camphor Ointment Comes to the Rescue
For a menthol rub to help with stuffy noses and coughing, I like this product better than the menthol rubs that come in a jar. It is less messy. I do have to be careful to wash my hands afterward to avoid eye contact,though, since the ointment tends to absorb fairly quickly. Placing a warm cloth over the rub does seem to help but sometimes this can be inconvenient if I am using it for a child that is being tucked into bed.
It does not work as well on muscle aches or for my occasional sore lower back. There is an initial tingling feeling and coolness that temporarily helps, but there are better products on the market for muscle ache relief. I have not been comfortable trying this product on cuts or scrapes.
Overall, I think that this is a good choice for those who use a menthol vapor rub for temporary relief of coughs or head colds. The container is nice and it reminds me of some type of old fashioned remedy. I imagine that the tin could be washed and used for some type of container after the ointment is gone, but we have not finished our first tin yet. It goes a long way when using it for occasional use.
I have seen Watkins Menthol Camphor Ointment online at drugstore.com and I know that it is also available from the manufacturer at www.watkinsonline.com. It costs more than Vicks but it lasts a long time. I’m giving it 4 out of 5 stars, taking away a star for use on sore muscles and for the higher cost.
Manufacturer Information:
Watkins Incorporated
Winona, MN 55987
Made in USA
www.watkinsonline.com
