<P> In pre-clinical animal studies, the application of Vicks VapoRub directly onto the tracheae of ferrets caused an increase in mucus production compared to a water - based lubricant . However, since the authors used a water - based and not oil - based compound as a control, it is not possible to ascertain which component of Vicks VapoRub caused the increased mucus production . Because Vicks VapoRub was also directly applied to the ferret trachea, it is also difficult to extrapolate the results from this study to comment on possible irritation arising from the safe use of Vicks VapoRub in humans . </P> <P> A Penn State study showed Vicks VapoRub to be more effective than placebo petroleum rub for helping cough and congestion with regards to helping children and even adults sleep . However, the study also showed that, unlike with the petroleum rub placebo, Vicks VapoRub was associated with burning sensations to the skin (28%), nose (14%) and eyes (16%), with 5% of study participants reporting redness and rash when using the product . </P> <P> Another study suggests VapoRub is an effective cough medicine for guinea pigs . </P> <P> It has been suggested that VapoRub can reduce or cure Onychomycosis . </P>

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