NFL players can no longer use smelling salts on the field. Recently, the NFL banned this practice, citing safety concerns. The league highlighted that these substances can mask concussion symptoms, which is a serious issue given that an estimated concussion occurs every two NFL games.
Smelling salts are typically made from ammonium carbonate. They’ve been around for centuries, originally known as the salt of hartshorn. Used initially for fainting, they’re meant to increase alertness by releasing ammonia gas, which can trigger a quick boost in heart rate and energy. However, their effectiveness in enhancing performance is debatable.
George Kittle, a tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, voiced his disappointment over the ban. He regularly relied on smelling salts during games, seeking to find a compromise with the league. Other sports leagues, like Australia’s National Rugby League, have also prohibited their use for safety reasons.
Dr. Laura Boxley, a neuropsychologist, describes the ammonia’s smell as unpleasant, likening it to close contact with cat urine. Players often use these salts as a quick way to feel alert, though the effects might be more psychological than physical.
Research shows mixed results regarding the actual benefits of smelling salts for performance. For athletes, the perceived boost might simply be linked to routine behaviors rather than a true enhancement of performance. Some athletes even treat it like a superstitious ritual, similar to other practices used for an edge in competition.
The risk associated with smelling salts escalates when players use them frequently or inappropriately. Overuse can lead to negative health effects like migraines and shortness of breath. More critically, athletes might overlook concussion signs when under the influence of these substances, potentially worsening their injuries.
Given these risks, experts suggest that while smelling salts may have legitimate medical uses, their informal application in sports is questionable. As the NFL prioritizes player safety, the ban reflects a broader push against practices that can jeopardize athletes’ health.
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