Vicks VapoRub originated in the 1890s when pharmacist Lunsford Richardson created an ointment to treat his son's croup. After confirming its effectiveness, he began selling the salve for 25 cents a jar. The ointment consisted of menthol, camphor, eucalyptus, and other oils in a petroleum jelly base, providing relief for coughs and nasal congestion. In 1911, under the leadership of his son, Henry Smith, the product was renamed to Vick's VapoRub Salve, establishing its place in households worldwide, especially during the 1918 Spanish flu outbreak.
Vicks VapoRub, created in 1894 by Lunsford Richardson, was initially intended to treat his son’s croup and became a hallmark remedy by the 1918 Spanish flu outbreak.
Richardson formulated his famous ointment using menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil, which helped relieve coughs by soothing blocked noses and chest congestion.
The name 'Vicks' was chosen to honor Richardson's brother-in-law, Dr. Joshua Vick, making the product memorable and appealing in the marketplace.
By 1911, the product was renamed to Vick's VapoRub Salve under the management of Richardson's son, Henry Smith, reflecting its evolution and market presence.
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