The chemical jolt: why athletes are sniffing ammonia for an edge
In short: From Victorian fainting couches to modern NFL sidelines, smelling salts have a storied history. But is this pungent ritual a genuine performance enhancer, or just a clever way to trigger a biological stress response that masks serious injury?
Smelling salts, or ammonia inhalants, are chemically designed to irritate. When inhaled, the ammonia gas irritates the mucous membranes in the nose and lungs, triggering a reflexive, deep breath. This sudden irritation activates the sympathetic nervous system—the body's 'fight-or-flight' mode—releasing a rush of adrenaline and hormones. While users often seek 'explosive energy' for lifting or sprinting, the sensation is not a 'high' but a physiological stress response. Historically, these compounds were known as sal volatile or spirit of hartshorn, a name derived from the 17th-century practice of distilling ammonia from deer horns and hooves.
Despite their popularity in powerlifting, rugby, and ice hockey, scientific evidence regarding their ergogenic benefits is inconclusive. A systematic review of ten studies found no statistically significant effect on overall physical performance or heart rate. While some preliminary findings suggest a possible benefit for power or explosive tasks, the primary confirmed effect is a significant increase in subjective arousal and activation. Essentially, the salts make you feel 'amped up' without necessarily making you stronger. While most major sports associations like the NBA, NHL, and Olympics permit their use, the NFL banned teams from providing them to players in 2025.
The risks extend beyond the unpleasant, 'stale pee' odor. Dr. Elizabeth Rainbolt warns that the intense physical reaction—such as coughing, sneezing, or sudden head jerking—can exacerbate existing neck or back injuries. Furthermore, because the adrenaline surge can mask pain, athletes may inadvertently ignore symptoms of serious trauma, such as concussions. Because these are sold as supplements, they are not regulated by the FDA, meaning manufacturers can make unproven claims about performance without scientific backing. Safety concerns also include the risk of chemical burns to the skin, eyes, or nasal passages if the packet is held too close. To minimize this, experts suggest keeping the source at least 10 to 15 centimetres away from the nostrils.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Why Are Athletes Sniffing Smelling Salts?
- Also: Smelling salts
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