Vicks VapoRub is a popular tip that is being spread on social media to repel rats, lizards, snakes, and cockroaches. But it is important to understand the scientific reason behind it.
Why does it work? (The Science Behind It)
The main ingredients in Vicks are Menthol, Camphor, and Eucalyptus Oil. They work in the following way:
Strong Aroma: Rats, snakes, and lizards have a very high sense of smell. The strong ‘menthol’ smell in Vicks irritates their nervous system and prevents them from breathing. Therefore, they try to move to places where this smell does not reach.
Irritant Effect: The Jacobson’s organ of snakes and lizards is very sensitive. The strong smell of Vicks irritates these organs. This causes them great discomfort, so they avoid such places.
Chemical irritation: Cockroaches, which are pests, cannot tolerate this smell. Cockroaches are reluctant to come to places where Vicks is applied.
How to use it?
Since this is a small home remedy, use it in the following way to make it effective:
In the kitchen: Apply a little Vicks to the windows, corners of the cupboards, and the area where pipes come in, where lizards and cockroaches come in.
Under the doors: Applying Vicks to the gaps in the door where rats are likely to come in will help prevent them.
Soak in cloth: Applying Vicks to a small piece of cotton or cloth and placing it in the corners where snakes are likely to come in will be beneficial for the time being.
