What’s this curious substance that NHL players inhale on the bench during the games?
On television and on social media, players are often shown inhaling something on the bench. The reactions that follow this inhalation often amuse hockey fans. However, do we really know the effects of this substance called ‘smelling salts’?
Alex Prewitt from Sports Illustrated explains in an article the effects of a substance frequently inhaled by NHL players before and during games. It consists of ammonia, alcohol, and another unknown substance. Consulting the scientific sheet, we see that this third substance is a type of volatile salt, which is where the name ‘smelling salts’ comes from. The known effects are to stimulate, much like an energy drink, but in an inhalable form.
«It doesn’t necessarily give you energy, but it wakes you up properly. It’s like it tells your brain, ‘Come on, the game is starting.’ I couldn’t do without it,» explained Kyle Palmieri in the Sports Illustrated article. Absurdly, while you can’t do without it, according to Kyle Palmieri, these products smell absolutely terrible! This practice dates back a long time, when Wayne Gretzky used to take some. It used to be used to recover from a rough night before a game. Let’s just say that customs have changed a bit. Or maybe not…
Attractive Effects
The physiological effects are simple: ammonia dilates blood vessels, allowing for better blood flow in the body and brain. ‘Smelling salts’ also increase heart rate, alertness, and blood pressure. Of course, no stimulant is without risk. Players suffering from concussions should not use such a substance since it affects the sympathetic nervous system. It’s quite surprising to see strong men consuming this substance on the bench.
However, apart from a slight burning sensation in the nasal mucosa, few side effects are reported. This substance is not banned in professional sports and is even used by weightlifters and NFL players. However, the effects are short-lived. Players who still use it seem to appreciate this substance for its energizing properties. Yet, ‘smelling salts’ are becoming less popular in the NHL, being more fashionable a few years ago. For many players, it is more of a superstition than a necessity.
The question now arises: why broadcast these images every time a player uses it? MLB penalizes players whose chewing tobacco is too visible. Television networks strive not to show images involving large chews of tobacco in players’ mouths. Should the NHL take inspiration from this regarding ‘smelling salts’?
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