Smelling salts, also recognized as ammonia inhalants or ammonia salts, are chemical compounds designed to rouse individuals who have lost consciousness. For centuries, dating back to the 13th century, these potent aromatic substances have been employed in medicine to both prevent and treat fainting episodes. While their prominence in mainstream medical practice has waned, smelling salts remain available for over-the-counter purchase for personal use. More recently, athletes have explored smelling salts for their purported performance-enhancing benefits, a practice that has sparked debate regarding their effectiveness and appropriate application. When used correctly, smelling salts are generally considered safe. However, misuse or overuse can lead to adverse effects.
The Science Behind the Scent: How Smelling Salts Work
So, What Do Smelling Salts Do to revive someone? The key lies in their primary component: ammonia. When smelling salts are held near your nose, the released ammonia vapor acts as an irritant to the delicate mucous membranes lining your nasal passages. This irritation triggers an involuntary inhalation reflex. Even if someone has fainted, this reflex prompts a deep and rapid intake of breath.
This sudden rush of oxygen reaching the brain is the crucial step in the revival process. Furthermore, the irritant effect stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, the body’s rapid response system. This stimulation initiates a “fight or flight” response, causing the adrenal glands to release adrenaline. This surge of adrenaline is what effectively jolts someone awake from a faint and can create a temporary feeling of heightened alertness.
Uses of Smelling Salts: From Fainting Spells to Athletic Fields
Historically, the primary application of smelling salts has been to counteract or prevent fainting. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved smelling salts solely for this purpose. The precise amount, frequency, and duration of use are contingent on the reason for their application and the specific product’s strength. It is crucial to adhere to a physician’s guidance and meticulously follow the instructions provided on the product packaging.
Beyond traditional medical use, some athletes have adopted smelling salts, believing they can provide a competitive edge. The theory is that the adrenaline surge induced by smelling salts can enhance focus and physical performance. However, scientific evidence supporting these performance-enhancing claims remains limited and inconclusive. The use of smelling salts in sports is a subject of ongoing discussion and varying opinions.
Safety and Usage Guidelines
Smelling salts are considered safe when used as directed. For typical application, the product should be held at a distance of at least 4 to 6 inches from the nostrils of the individual being treated. This precaution is vital to prevent potential irritation or burning of the nasal passages. The person should slowly inhale the vapor until consciousness is regained or the feeling of faintness subsides.
Overuse of smelling salts should be avoided, as it can lead to complications. Potential side effects can include irritation of the nasal and respiratory passages, and in rare cases, high concentrations could be harmful.
For storage, smelling salts should be kept at room temperature in a tightly sealed container to prevent moisture absorption and maintain their potency.
What Does the Smell of Smelling Salts Like?
The characteristic and pungent odor of smelling salts is directly attributable to the ammonia they contain. The scent is often described as an extremely intense and unpleasant version of common household cleaning products. Imagine the sharp, acrid smell of bleach, but significantly stronger and more concentrated. This powerful and irritating smell is a key component of how smelling salts achieve their reviving effect.
In conclusion, what smelling salts do is leverage a strong irritant to trigger a physiological response that can effectively revive someone who has fainted. While primarily intended for this purpose, their use has expanded into other areas, such as athletics, though with less firmly established benefits. When used responsibly and according to instructions, smelling salts remain a generally safe and readily accessible method for addressing fainting episodes.
