Cold & Flu rubs – more than just aromatics

Welcome to PD’s weekly comment feature. This week’s contributor is Dr. Jaspreet Singh, Vicks Senior Scientist.

ACCORDING to a Vicks survey, about 40% of Australians experience cold & flu in the months of June and July, with cough, blocked nose and body aches being common symptoms. Rubs containing ingredients such as menthol and eucalyptus oil have been used for many decades to help relieve symptoms. However, there is a misbelief that these are just aromatics and not very effective which results in low level of recommendation from pharmacists.

Menthol and eucalyptus oil are pharmacologically active and provide relief via interacting with transient receptor potential (TRP) family of receptors. These receptors are present in nasal & throat lining as well our skin.

Menthol acts on TRPM8 to stimulate sensory nerve endings and provides a cooling sensation associated with improved airflow and reduced nasal congestion. Menthol also acts on TRPM8 receptors in the throat to reduce cough activity. Eucalyptol is an antagonist to TRPA1 receptor, and relieves cough and pain symptoms by blocking pro-tussive activity and inhibiting release of proinflammatory neuropeptides.

A warm massage with a rub and relief from cold symptoms can help patients sleep, enabling them to recover from cold symptoms. Pharmacists can co-recommend a topical rub with other cold remedies, ensuring there are no known interactions with other items.