Rugby’s authorities have no immediate plans to follow American football’s NFL in banning ‘smelling salts’ over concerns they may mask concussion symptoms.<\/p>\n
Smelling salts – a pungent mix of ammonia, water and ethanol – are marketed as improving mental alertness or boosting energy.<\/p>\n
One study suggested that by irritating the nose and lungs, they stimulate a sharp intake of breath and a short-term rush of oxygen to the brain.<\/p>\n
However, in a memo to their teams, obtained by the Associated Press,, external<\/a> the NFL warned smelling salts also “have the potential to mask certain neurological signs and symptoms, including some potential signs of concussion”.<\/p>\n Their use is common in high-level rugby dressing rooms.<\/p>\n During half-time of the first British and Irish Lions’ Test against Australia last month, Lions flanker Tadhg Beirne was shown inhaling smelling salts as the rest of the team huddled up.<\/p>\n Video of his use of smelling salts, and team-mate Jack Conan’s reaction, were used on the team’s social media., external<\/a><\/p>\n Team-mate Ellis Genge has previously used them directly before England matches, while Premier League footballers have been pictured apparently using them on the pitch.<\/p>\n