How does Mentholatum Ointment cure congestion?

Factual Questions
1

I’m currently nursing my beloved fiance through a bad summer cold. I’ll probably get it soon, too. Anyway, part of the process involves rubbing Mentholatum Ointment (9% Camphor, 1.3% Natural Menthol) on her upper lip,neck, chest and back. Then I put a hot, wet washcloth on her chest.

:smiley:

Ahem. How is this “gentle aromatic” supposed to relieve stuffy noses, chest congestion, sinus congestion, head & chest colds, and muscular aches?

It made her tingly, it relaxed her, but she’s still congested, the poor dear. Did I put it on wrong? Can I do it again?

2

Google search on “menthol decongestant chemistry” = 0.18 seconds

Writing this post = 180 seconds

You doing it instead = priceless

3

Thanks for the help, Zenster! It was priceless.