What are 'Smelling Salts' and why did the NFL ban them?

Smelling salts, or ammonia inhalants, are chemical stimulants traditionally used to revive individuals after fainting by triggering a sharp inhalation response. In contact sports, athletes have used them to boost alertness and energy, particularly after heavy impacts.

However, growing concerns about their potential to mask serious injuries - such as concussions - have led to increased scrutiny. The NFL has now banned the use of smelling salts before and during games, citing health and safety reasons.

The product has already been banned by the International Boxing Federation and National Rugby League in Australia for the same reasons.


In a memo sent to all 32 teams on Tuesday, the league stated that clubs are prohibited from providing or supplying ammonia in any form during NFL games. The decision follows a recommendation from the NFL's head, neck, and spine committee, prompted by a 2024 FDA warning.

The FDA highlighted potential risks associated with ammonia inhalants, including their ability to mask neurological symptoms - such as those linked to concussions - raising serious concerns about player safety and accurate injury assessment on the field.

"This prohibition applies to all club personnel (including but not limited to team physicians, athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches and coaches or other personnel)," the memo stated. "The prohibition applies through the entirety of all NFL games, including during all pregame activities, and halftime, and applies on the sideline and in stadium locker rooms."

WHAT ARE 'SMELLING SALTS'

Smelling salts are chemical compounds, typically ammonium carbonate mixed with perfume and ethanol, used to revive someone who has fainted or feels lightheaded. When inhaled, the strong ammonia odor irritates nasal membranes, triggering a sharp inhalation and a temporary boost in alertness.

Players often used them to feel more energized or focused, especially before games, but repeated use may affect respiratory health or mask concussion symptoms.

NFLPA CLARIFIES 'SMELLING SALTS' RULE

However, despite some confusion following a league memo, players will still be permitted to use smelling salts during games this season - provided they use their own. The ban only restricts clubs from providing or distributing ammonia inhalants.

According to ESPN, the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) sent letters to players Wednesday night, in which the union clarified the scope of the league’s recent ban on ammonia inhalants. After seeking further details, the NFLPA confirmed that the ban applies solely to teams providing or distributing ammonia to players, and does not prohibit individual player use.