Are Herbal Inhalers Safe?

Global stars like Blackpink’s Lisa and Chris Hemsworth had earlier shown their fondness for Thai herbal inhalers. It is popular in Thailand because of its use as a traditional remedy to soothe motion sickness, fight fatigue and boost alertness. Not only this, it is also a souvenir for travellers in Thailand. People have been talking about Thai herbal inhalers of late, but for all the wrong reasons. This popular product has come under the radar after a well-known Thai herbal inhaler brand was forced to recall a large batch of its products after health authorities discovered that they failed to meet safety standards due to contamination. This has brought the spotlight into herbal inhalers, in general. So, what exactly are herbal inhalers and how safe are they? Let’s find out.

The editorial team of OnlyMyHealth reached out to Dr Kalpana Nagpal, Senior Consultant, ENT, Head, Neck and Robotic Surgery, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, to get a better understanding of this topic from an expert’s lens. Read ahead.

What Are Herbal Inhalers?

Let us begin by understanding what they actually are. “Herbal or essential oil inhalers usually contain menthol, eucalyptus or camphor oils. These ingredients don’t really open up the nasal passages but create a cooling sensation that tricks the brain into feeling like you’re breathing easier. They can provide temporary relief from nasal stuffiness or mild headaches, but they do not treat infections or allergies,” explains Dr Nagpal.

 In Thailand, people have been using this as a form of traditional medicine for thousands of years. It is said that the first Thai inhaler was created almost two thousand years back. The inhaler is said to have a strong smell, which can be used for various purposes – from masking pollution, clearing up nasal passages to boosting energy.

Are Herbal Inhalers Safe?

Now, let us talk about the question which is doing the rounds lately – are these herbal inhalers safe? “When used occasionally and in moderation, most herbal inhalers are safe for healthy adults. The vapors act locally and give symptomatic relief. However, people with asthma, chronic respiratory diseases, or fragrance sensitivities may experience irritation, coughing or wheezing. Camphor-based products should never be used on or around infants,” shares Dr Nagpal.

Many people use raw essential oils as inhalers. Speaking about its safety, Dr Nagpal shares, “They can be safe when they come from reputed brands and are used correctly. The problem is that essential oils are potent — and unregulated. High concentrations or impure oils can irritate the nose and lungs. Avoid homemade or unlabelled products, and never apply essential oils directly into the nostril.”

Also Read: DIY Natural Inhalers: Herbal Remedies For Instant Stress Relief

Disadvantages Of Herbal Inhalers

On this note, the expert lists the disadvantages of herbal inhalers for us:

• The biggest misconception is that these inhalers cure nasal congestion. They don’t. They only mask symptoms. 
• Overuse can irritate the nasal lining, trigger allergic reactions or cause dependency on the sensation of ‘clear breathing.’ 
• If used by children or people with airway sensitivity, they can sometimes make breathing worse instead of better. 

Why Are Thai Herbal Inhalers Popular?

We are all aware of the popularity of Thai herbal inhalers. But what makes them in-demand? Our expert answers. 

“Thai herbal inhalers have become popular because they use small, pre-measured quantities of natural oils in a sealed container, reducing the risk of direct mucosal contact. From an ENT point of view, they’re relatively safe for short-term use in adults — as long as people don’t use them excessively or assume they can replace proper medical treatment,” explains Dr Nagpal.

Now, if you are wondering whether you can make your own DIY herbal inhaler, we have good news. Dr Nagpal shares, “If someone wants to make it, it's best to use a proper inhaler tube and add just a couple of drops of a single oil – like peppermint or eucalyptus – onto a cotton wick. Never exceed a few drops or apply oils directly to the skin or nose. And always store it away from children.”

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The Final Word

When used occasionally and in moderation, most herbal inhalers are safe for healthy adults. But one must consult with a professional before making it a part of their routine, or in case its usage causes irritation or any other health issues.