Natural Decongestant (Homemade Vicks VapoRub)

I grew up in a household of Vicks VapoRub, Blistex, and Penaten solutions, and while I still have nostalgic ties to the scents (Blistex still takes me back to the summer of Terminator 2, when I had an insane crush on Edward Furlong, and a worse cold sore) I don't purchase those products I grew up with.

In an effort to find healthier products for my family I started focusing on nutrition, natural products, homeopathic treatments, and home remedies. And it's amazing what happens when you start experimenting with at-home solutions.

Here's an incredibly effective, all natural decongestant I've discovered that can be used on any member of the family who's suffering, from infant to adult:

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1Tbsp Coconut Oil 

(Ours is Dr. Bronner's Fair Trade Organic Whole Virgin Coconut Oil)

10-15 drops of preferred essential oil: peppermint, eucalyptus, or a combo of both

(Mine is from Aura Cacia)

Store in refrigerator to keep firm until use

Massage small amount gently onto chest, throat, and back.
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Simple idea. Minimal cost. Incredibly effective! A fraction of the cost of a store bought chest rub and you can have a healthy, natural product that can help:

• reduce cough  
• ease labored breathing due to congestion
• clear sinuses  
• relax and soothe before sleep

AND afterwards you have the coconut and essential oils on hand to use in other ways. This came in very handy throughout our first round of illness this cold season.

If you like this simple decongestant, and would like to try other variations here's another great DIY Chest Rub from Stacy at A Delightful Home.

And hey! You should come and visit me on YouTube HERE.

Disclaimer: I do not claim to be a medical professional, just a mother of three who's used this solution effectively on all members of our family.