Mentholatum for Congestion

Aromatic chest rub ointments such as Mentholatum have been used by generations for cold symptoms such as congestion. The ointments contain ingredients such as camphor, menthol and eucalyptus.

Significance

• While Mentholatum and other aromatic ointments have been used for many years, it's important to use them as directed. For instance, never use the products on children under 2 years of age, and do not apply directly under the nose of anyone, according to Bruce K. Rubin, M.D., professor in pediatrics at Brenner Children’s Hospital.

Warning

• Using Mentholatum on small children or infants can actually worsen symptoms, or even create respiratory distress, according to a study published in Chest magazine in January, 2009. While the study was specifically about Vick's VapoRub, the findings are about the irritants in the product, particularly menthol, which are also found in Mentholatum.

Effects

• Although camphor, eucalyptus and menthol (Mentholatum ingredients) may make a patient feel better, they are not effective as decongestants, especially for children with severe congestion, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Benefits

• Menthol preparations such as Mentholatum may make the patient feel better, but perhaps not due to improving congestion, but rather due to the cool sensation it produces in the nose, giving the feeling of improved breathing, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Considerations

• Menthol is beneficial for reducing respiratory symptoms, according to a study done by Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine and published in October 2008. Due to conflicting research, such as the study in 2009 in Chest magazine regarding the possible dangers and ineffectiveness of such products, patients should seek a physician's advice, follow labeling instructions on the products and avoid use on infants and toddlers.