NFL bans smelling salts

Sparkchaser

Actually, as I read it, it prohibits the teams from providing it. Which seems to leave open a player providing their own.

“NFL reveals reasons why smelling salts are banned in 2025”
https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2025/08/05/nfl-smelling-salts-ban-george-kittle/85533572007/

Sparkchaser

So, I read it correctly.

“NFL players can still use smelling salts as long as not provided by teams ”

“The NFLPA sent a memo to players on Wednesday saying that the ban that the league informed teams about on Tuesday only prohibits team employees from distributing smelling salts and any other ammonia inhalant during pregame activities, games and halftime on the sideline or locker rooms.”

https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-players-can-still-use-smelling-salts-as-long-as-not-provided-by-teams

dave

Sparkchaser

People still use smelling salts? I thought that was just for reviving delicate Victorian ladies who’d been overcome with a fit of the vapours.

Somewhat-Reticent

Sparkchaser Liability avoidance, then?

ugly95

In my rec hockey leagues, I’ve noticed a lot of players, especially younger guys, using smelling salts. It seems to be something that’s become much more popular that last two or three years.

On my one team last season, the guy bringing the smelling salts was almost as important as the guy bringing the beer.

real_aurgathor

This may partially explain it:

Further, smelling salts aren’t a good way to deal with a concussion or other injury that might otherwise take you out of a game. For one thing, their effects can mask a serious injury or worsening symptoms. This can delay and complicate diagnosis and treatment.‌

And when you’re revived with smelling salts after passing out, you may reflexively jerk your head and neck as you try to get away from the ammonia fumes. This could cause or worsen a back or neck injury.

https://www.webmd.com/brain/are-smelling-salts-safe

urbanriot

dave People still use smelling salts?

Field medics had them in my native country’s army, little sachets of fun. We used to snap them open for kicks and have a terrible time, the first person to have a negative reaction loses. I didn’t think they were used anymore, surprised to hear they’re part of the NFL medic toolkit.

Heat84

I didn’t know smelling salts were used that way. I thought they were just used to revive an unconscious person.

Since urine has ammonia in it, they can just pee on their face while they’re on the sidelines.😛 Although the ammonia smell from fresh urine isn’t very pungent I don’t think. I think it would have to sit awhile.

Sparkchaser

real_aurgathor their effects can mask a serious injury or worsening symptoms.

That’s the reason I figured was the main concern.

MacLeech

Alcohol pads have often been used in place of smelling salts. The isopropyl alcohol pads found in first aid kits. Rip one open and take a whiff.

real_aurgathor

But want to make sure the alcohol used is just ethyl, and not any of the others since they are usually poisonous in one way or another.

I have a quart of “Clean burning fuel alcohol” under the kitchen sink and while it doesn’t list the ingredients [not sure why] I think it’s about 50% methyl and 50% ethyl alcohol.

real_aurgathor

Heat84 Since urine has ammonia in it,

Fresh urine do not usually have ammonia in it. The ammonia is generated by the decomposition of urea.