The Zea Blog

Explore health and wellness tips, learn more about our ingredients and sustainability practices, and meet the people behind Zea.

Introducing Zea Relief Vapour Rub: Your Natural Solution to Congestion Relief

Hasnaa Hyder | 06 January

When it comes to soothing congestion and easing respiratory discomfort, many people turn to familiar products like Vicks Vaporub.

However, we have come a long way since these products were developed and you can now get the same benefits without the potential side effects, from irritating side effects to the inclusion of potentially harmful ingredients. That is why we are thrilled to introduce our new Zea Relief Vapour Rub, a skin-friendly, natural alternative that brings you the healing power of nature in every application. 

Zea Relief Vapour Rub

What Makes Zea Relief Vapour Rub Unique

Our Zea Relief Vapour Rub is carefully formulated using a blend of natural Australian ingredients that are unique for their anti-inflammatory, decongestant and antimicrobial properties. With key ingredients like Kunzea, Peppermint, Eucalyptus and Lemon Myrtle, Zea Relief Vapour Rub offers a holistic solution to respiratory congestion, without the side effects associated with petroleum-based products.

What's in the Zea Relief Vapour Rub?

Let’s dive into the unique qualities of the ingredients that make our Vapour Rub stand out:

Kunzea (Kunzea ambigua)

Kunzea oil is rich in alpha-pinene and cineole, compounds known for their ability to reduce inflammation and clear the airways. It works to naturally loosen mucus and provide relief from sinus congestion, helping to breathe easier without the harsh chemicals found in many conventional products.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Known for its cooling sensation, Peppermint is a powerful decongestant. Menthol, one of its key actives, helps to thin mucus, soothe sore throats and break up coughs, all while providing antiviral, antibacterial and anti-fungal protection. It is the perfect natural remedy for colds and flu.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus radiata)

Eucalyptus is a well-known decongestant that helps open nasal passages and clear sinuses. The cineole content in eucalyptus oil also works as a natural decongestant, offering comfort during times of congestion and promoting better airflow for easier breathing.

Nerolina (Melaleuca quinquenervia):

Known for its gentle, floral scent, Nerolina is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. It helps reduce swelling and irritation in the airways while providing antimicrobial and antiviral protection to fight off the infections that cause congestion.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary is valued for its therapeutic abilities. With its antiviral, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, Rosemary helps clear respiratory congestion and boosts circulation to enhance the body’s ability to eliminate mucus.

Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora)

With its uplifting lemony aroma, Lemon Myrtle is a gentle yet effective decongestant that clears the nasal passages. It is packed with citral, which reduces mucus buildup and inflammation, easing congestion and sore throats while also calming the mind.

Peppermint Gum (Eucalyptus dives CT piperitone)

This eucalyptus variety enhances the cooling and decongestant properties of Peppermint and Eucalyptus. It provides a synergistic effect, further helping to clear congestion and soothe the respiratory system.

Peppermint Gum Eucalyptus

How Zea Relief Vapour Rub Works

The combination of powerful natural ingredients in our Zea Relief Vapour Rub creates a synergistic effect that can effectively clear mucus, reduce inflammation, and help soothe sore throats. Here’s how it works:

1. Decongestion

Ingredients like Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Nerolina open up nasal passages. They work together to help clear blocked airways, easing symptoms of sinus congestion, colds and coughs.

2. Anti-Inflammatory

Kunzea, Lemon Myrtle and Rosemary help reduce swelling in the airways, making breathing easier and reducing discomfort caused by congestion.

3. Antimicrobial

With its antimicrobial properties, Zea Relief Vapour Rub helps to fight the infections that often lead to congestion, reducing the risk of further complications.

4. Soothing & Calming

Rosemary, Nerolina and Lemon Myrtle add a calming effect, easing irritation and promoting a sense of comfort. For enhanced relaxation, inhale our Calming Lifestyle Blend to help soothe and melt away any lingering tension.

5. Reduces Headache Symptoms

Kunzea, Peppermint and Eucalyptus work together to relax muscle tension and alleviate sinus pressure that can cause headaches. For extra comfort, try our Therapeutic Roll On range to enhance your experience and feel the relief you’re needing with an on-the-go solution.  

A Better Alternative to Traditional Vapour Rubs 

You might be familiar with traditional chest rubs and balms, like Vicks Vaporub, which often rely on ingredients such as Petroleum, Menthol, Camphor and Turpentine. While these ingredients can offer temporary relief, they come with several concerns and potential side effects:

  • Petroleum: A key base ingredient in many well-known traditional brands because it is cheap. Petroleum can cause irritation, clog pores and may even contribute to long-term lung issues when applied near the nose. It could also be unsafe for infants and young children.

  • Camphor: While camphor has some benefits, it can be toxic if absorbed into the skin or ingested, which can lead to side effects like seizures and respiratory distress.

  • Menthol: While menthol provides a refreshing, cooling sensation that can make you feel like you're breathing more easily, it is important to note that it doesn't actually relieve congestion. In fact, it may contribute to increased inflammation, which could worsen congestion over time. Additionally, some individuals may experience skin irritation, such as redness or itching. Menthol can have more serious side effects such as seizures or coma. 

  • Turpentine: While Turpentine is generally used in small, controlled amounts in topical products, some individuals may experience mild skin irritation or allergic reactions. Inhaling turpentine may cause temporary discomfort in the throat or lungs. For those with asthma, it could potentially trigger airway spasms when inhaled. 

Our Zea Relief Vapour Rub, on the other hand, is a 100% natural solution, free from harmful ingredients like Petroleum and Camphor. The active ingredients used not only relieve congestion but also reduce inflammation and fight infections while being much friendly on the skin for the whole family! 

For enhanced relief, pair it with our Breathe Easy or Immunity Lifestyle Blend. By diffusing these powerful blends of therapeutic natural oils, you’ll enjoy easier breathing while enhancing the soothing benefits of our Zea Relief Vapour Rub. Together, they provide the ultimate support for your respiratory health.

Safe for the Whole Family

Zea Relief Vapour Rub is made from natural ingredients, making it safe for use on all ages. Simply apply a small layer on the chest, back and neck as needed and massage in gently for relief. For children under 12 months, it can be safely applied under the soles of their feet for a gentler effect. You can use it up to three times a day to help with symptoms of congestion, coughs and colds.

Did you know that honey is a powerful natural remedy for soothing coughs and supporting the respiratory system, providing relief during congestion or allergy season? Explore our Natural Tasmanian Honey range to help alleviate your symptoms and promote wellness.

Zea Relief Vapour Rub

Why Choose Zea Relief Vapour Rub?

1. All-natural 

Free from harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients, Zea Relief Vapour Rub is safe for sensitive skin and gentle on the respiratory system.

2. Effective

The combination of potent essential oils offers a holistic solution to congestion, sinus infections and coughs.

3. Versatile

Suitable for adults and children, our Vapour Rub is an excellent addition to any natural medicine cabinet.

4. No Harmful Side Effects

With no petroleum, camphor, or synthetic chemicals, Zea Relief Vapour Rub is a much safer and more effective alternative to traditional products.

Experience the Difference Today

If you're ready to experience natural relief from congestion, coughs and sinus discomfort, give our Zea Relief Vapour Rub a try today. It is a powerful, natural solution for clearer breathing and soothing comfort—without the risk of harmful side effects. Make the switch to Zea Relief Vapour Rub and breathe easier, naturally.

References 

1. Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Sinus infection (sinusitis). [Fact sheet]. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17701-sinusitis 

2. De Oliveira, J. R., Camargo, S. E. A., & De Oliveira, L. D. (2019). Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) as therapeutic and prophylactic agent. Journal of Biomedical Science, 26(1), 5. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12929-019-0499-8

3. Hoang, D., Wong, A., & Olympia, R. P. (2023). Looking back to move forward: the turrent state of research on the clinical applications of camphor- and menthol-containing agents. Cureus, 15(7), e41426. http://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.41426

4. Kamrani, P., Hedrick, J., Marks, J. G., & Zaenglein, A. L. (2024). Petroleum jelly: a comprehensive review of its history, uses, and safety. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 90(4), 807-813. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2023.06.010

5. Leigh-de Rapper, S., Viljoen, A., & van Vuuren, S. (2021). Essential oil blends: the potential of combined use for respiratory tract infections. Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland), 10(12), 1517. http://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121517

6. Mount Sinai. (2024). Eucalyptus. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/eucalyptus

7. Mount Sinai. (2024). Peppermint. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/peppermint#:~:text=Peppermint%20and%20its%20main%20active,(pharyngitis)%20and%20dry%20coughs.

8. Poison Control National Capital Poison Centre. (2024). Can menthol have harmful effects?. https://www.poison.org/articles/what-happens-with-swallowing-or-inhaling-too-much-menthol--174#:~:text=Serious%20effects%20include%20seizures%2C%20coma,chemical%20burns%20have%20been%20reported.

9. Ruben, B. K. (2009, January 13). Warning about Vicks VapoRub. News Medical Life Sciences. https://www.news-medical.net/news/2009/01/13/44914.aspx

10. Shim, S. Y., Kim, J. H., Kho, K. H., & Lee, M. (2020). Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities of lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) leaf extract. Toxicology Reports, 7, 277-281. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxrep.2020.01.018

11. Stanborough, R. J. (2024, July 11). 10 uses for vicks vaporub and what science says about them. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/vicks-vaporub-benefits

12. Tullio, V., Roana, J., Scalas, D., & Mandras, N. (2019). Evaluation of the antifungal activity of Mentha x piperita (Lamiaceae) of pancalieri (Turin, Italy) essential oil and its synergistic interaction with azoles. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 24(17), 3148. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24173148

13. Waller, S. B., Cleff, M. B., Dalla Lana, D. F., de Mattos, C. B., Guterres, K. A., Freitag, R. A., Sallis, E. S. V., Fuentefria, A. M., de Mello, J. R. B., de Faria, R. O., & Meireles, M. C. A. (2021). Can the essential oil of rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis linn.) protect rats infected with itraconazole-resistant sporothrix brasiliensis from fungal spread?. Journal of Medicial Mycology, 31(4), 101199. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mycmed.2021.101199

14. WebMD. (2024). Turpentine oil - uses, side effects, and more. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-508/turpentine-oil

15. Wilkinson, J. M. (2024, November 5). Is it true that honey calms coughs better than cough medicine do?. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/cough/expert-answers/honey/faq-20058031

16. Zhou, L. J., Li, F. R., Huang, L. J., Yang, Z. R., Yuan, S., & Bai, L. H. (2016). Antifungal activity of eucalyptus oil against rice blast fungi and the possible mechanism of gene expression pattern. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 21(5), 621. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21050621