Avoid toxic vapor rubs by making this homemade beeswax alternative

When you or a loved one is struggling with respiratory issues, the last thing you want to do is introduce toxic chemicals that will only make breathing issues worse and will not provide true healing. Many conventional over-the-counter products like vapor rubs contain a host of harmful components such as petroleum, artificial fragrances and chemicals. When you read labels for various skin products, you discover that petroleum permeates many of them. Yet as a product of oil refining, it is not exactly something you want to put on your skin or anywhere on or in your body.

In fact, none of those questionable ingredients should be used around your delicate respiratory system. And although conventional vapor rub is intended to help with respiratory symptoms, its ingredients can actually harm the lungs as well as the skin, eyes, and organs, according to the Environmental Working Group.

Toss those toxic ingredients and products aside in favor of soothing and healing substances and ingredients. You will experience far more effective healing along with greater peace of mind.

Although there are some products for sale that can be used as vapor rubs to massage into your chest, why not get industrious by creating homemade versions of these products? In very little time and as a low-cost alternative, you can make an effective version that you will reach for over and over again. The key base ingredient is beeswax, an amazing substance used for a variety of products from candles to skin creams. Also included are essential oils, which are potent medicinal ingredients that also typically smell very pleasing.

Simple yet highly effective ingredients

Who says the simplest things can’t be the most beneficial? Natural remedies are not only simple but are also typically more effective than their toxic, conventional counterparts. Homemade vapor rub contains readily available ingredients that work to promote respiratory healing while also smelling great.

Here are the ingredients you will need:

• 1 ounce of yellow beeswax
• 3 ounces of olive oil
• 10 drops of vitamin E oil (use more or less based on the moisturizing properties desired)
• Essential oils (try camphor, eucalyptus, tea tree, lavender, peppermint, and/or birch; use 1 or more kinds and 2 or 3 drops of each)

If possible, use all organic ingredients from trustworthy sources.

Also gather these supplies:

• Scale (preferably digital)
• Spoon
• Double boiler

In addition, you will need containers that are preferably made out of glass for storing your vapor rub. Use whatever size you prefer, but 1-ounce containers can be convenient for both at-home and travel uses.

This soothing vapor rub could not be much easier or quicker to make. Just gently heat up the beeswax and olive oil in a double boiler on the stove. Stir until the ingredients melt and blend together. Then, after removing the double boiler from the stove, stir in the essential oils and vitamin E oil. Once the mixture has cooled and is thoroughly mixed together, spoon it into the glass containers.

A versatile remedy to keep on hand

Once you have the vapor rub ready and waiting for you to use, you might be surprised at how often you find it helpful. Use it for all ages when addressing respiratory symptoms like nasal and chest congestion. It can even be beneficial for counteracting congestion caused by allergies. Wash and dry your hands, and then scoop out a small amount of vapor rub with your finger. Gently massage that into your chest, back, and/or neck area. Also, try dabbing a bit under your nose. Use a smaller amount for children. Consult your natural health practitioner if you are dealing with chronic and serious respiratory issues.

Sources include:

MotherEarthNews.com

OrganicAuthority.com

EWG.org