Many use Vicks to mask strong odors

Q. As a forensic crime-scene detective, I have used Vicks VapoRub in my nose to block the smell of noxious odors for many years. No adverse effects have been apparent. However, I am aware that adverse effects may still present a serious concern over the long term.

A. We can well imagine that a forensic crime-scene investigator would have to deal with some pretty stinky situations. The strong aroma of Vicks can mask other smells.

We have heard from readers that horse trainers sometimes utilize this unique property of Vicks: “My friend raises and shows palominos. When she shows the stallions, she puts a little bit of Vicks inside their nostrils so they won’t get a sniff of a mare in heat and act like a typical male and show off. If they can not smell the mare, they behave properly.”

A zoo in England has used Vicks to mask the scent of newcomers in a group of meerkats. Without some such intervention, they are likely to fight.

Our Guide to Unique Uses for Vicks offers intriguing applications for nail fungus, dandruff, bug bites and tennis elbow.

Anyone who would like a copy, please send $2 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (59 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons’ People’s Pharmacy, No. Vi-76, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027. It also can be downloaded for $2 from our Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.com.

The manufacturer warns that Vicks VapoRub is “for external use only,” and should not be put in nostrils. Regular use of petroleum jelly in the nose may increase the risk for lung irritation.

Q. The recent melamine scare from China has me wondering. Due to the fact that supplements have little regulatory control, is there a risk that protein powders sold for dieters and muscle builders could contain melamine to increase the amount of protein when tested?

Also, should I worry about my children’s melamine dining plates?

A. You raise a fascinating question. Chinese producers have apparently added melamine to milk to cover up the fact that it was diluted.

The same chemical was also added to the pet-food ingredient gluten to make it appear higher in protein so it would be worth more.

No one has suggested that protein powder has been contaminated with melamine, though we don’t know how carefully the Food and Drug Administration has tested such products. If the raw ingredients in such powders came from China, there might be cause for concern.

Melamine is high in nitrogen and is used to make countertops, dry-erase boards and unbreakable dishes. We doubt that the dishes pose any risk to your children, since such plastic plates have been used for decades and are unlikely to release melamine into the food.

Q. I used Chantix to quit smoking May 30. I don’t recall any psychological side effects and have been recommending it to everyone.

After using it successfully, I figured all smokers should try it and wondered why they weren’t. Reading about the depression and rage some people report on your Web site (www.peoplespharmacy.com) answered that question.

A. Chantix is a unique medication that seems quite effective in helping people quit smoking. But there are potential side effects that can be terrible for some people.

They include weird dreams, insomnia, depression, suicidal thoughts, irritability, aggression, nausea and headache.

XIn their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of The Vindicator or e-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. Their newest book is “Best Choices From The People’s Pharmacy” (Rodale Books).

2008 King Features Syndicate Inc.