Vicks and Alcoholado: Folk Puerto Rican Remedies Passed Down Through Generations

In my Puerto Rican household in Brooklyn, Vicks and Alcoholado were always side by side in the medicine cabinet. From fevers to headaches, congestion to muscle aches, these remedies were our first line of care—a tradition passed down through generations. For those who don’t know what Vaporub and Alcoholado are, here is a quick overview:

Vicks Vaporub:

• What is it?  A cooling salve applied topically to the chest and back used to help ease congestion and soothe colds.  It’s generally made with a mix of camphor and eucalyptus with some recipes that include peppermint and lavender

• Uses:  For its comforting aroma that promotes a sense of temporary relief and easier breathing.

• Cultural note:  A staple in Puerto Rican home remedies for colds, coughs and minor aches.

Alcoholado (Alcolado):

• What is it?  An herbal rubbing alcohol blend made by infusing alcohol with menthol, camphor, bay leaves with some recipes that include eucalyptus, mint and malagueta leaves.

• Uses:  A folk remedy used for muscle aches, colds, headaches and as a quick skin refresher in hot climates.

• Why it’s loved:  Provides an instant cooling effect on the skin, with aromatic notes of herbs and mint (the aroma is amazing).

• Cultural note:  Deeply rooted in Puerto Rican folk medicine, valued for its medicinal properties and spiritual protection including energy cleansing.

Both have also been used to address fungal infections like athlete’s foot and nail fungus due to their anti-fungal properties. 

Safety Considerations:

·      External use only – never ingest.

·      Vick’s Vaporub:  Not for infants or toddlers under the age of 2 years old; I personally use Vicks Babyrub which blends eucalyptus, rosemary and lavender and have found it safe when applied on the chest and back (no underlying health issues present).

·      Alcoholado:  Clinical research on its effectiveness is limited as it’s a traditional folk remedy.  Its benefits are thought to come from the properties of its individual botanical components rather than the mixture itself. 

·      General recommendation:  As always, consult your healthcare professional prior to use.

Vaporub and Alcoholado are more than simple remedies – they are a piece of Puerto Rican culture.  They remind me of the everyday wellness practices of generations before and are a part of my home medicine cabinet housing modern and folk medicine together. 

References:

·       What is Malagueta?  Puerto Rico’s Medicinal Tree

·       There’s the Rub:  a narrative review of the benefits and complications associated with Vick’s Vaporub use

·       Vapor Rub, Petrolatum, and No Treatment for Children With Nocturnal Cough and Cold Symptoms