If you’ve watched an NFL game closely, you may have noticed players using small packets or capsules near their noses before taking the field or after a big hit. These are smelling salts, and they’ve become a common sight on the sidelines — but what exactly do they do?
What Are Smelling Salts?
Smelling salts are a combination of ammonium carbonate and perfume or ethanol. When the packet is broken or snapped, it releases ammonia gas. The strong, pungent odor irritates the mucous membranes in the nose and lungs, triggering an involuntary inhalation reflex. This increases breathing rate, heart rate, and alertness.
Why Do NFL Players Use Them?
NFL players use smelling salts to achieve a quick burst of energy and focus. Here’s how it helps:
- Mental Jolt: The ammonia triggers the body’s fight-or-flight response, momentarily increasing alertness and adrenaline.
- Pre-Game Hype: Some players use it before kickoff to get “in the zone” or pumped up for the action.
- Post-Hit Wake-Up: After a hard hit, some players turn to smelling salts to regain sharpness — though this use has raised medical concerns.
Are Smelling Salts Safe?
While generally considered safe in small amounts, medical experts don’t recommend regular or excessive use, especially after concussions or head trauma. They don’t treat injuries — they only mask symptoms — which could lead to further risk if players return to action too soon.
Conclusion
Smelling salts offer a temporary boost in alertness and energy, which is why many NFL players keep them handy. However, while effective in the short term, they are not a substitute for proper medical evaluation or rest. Like many sideline rituals in sports, they walk a fine line between performance enhancement and safety risk.