Smelling Salts for Power Smelling salts, also known as ammonia inhalation, have been a staple in athletic training for over a century.
Their use is often shrouded in mystery, but the science behind them is straightforward: they induce a physiological response that increases alertness and energy by stimulating the nervous system and dilating blood vessels.
The history of smelling salts dates back to the early 20th century when they were first used by soldiers to revive themselves from mustard gas exposure.