Are smelling salts safe?

Smelling salts, particularly those containing ammonia, are effective in rapidly increasing alertness and wakefulness by activating certain pathways in the brain, specifically from the nose to the amygdala. This is why they are often used in situations where an instant arousal from unconsciousness or an increase in alertness is necessary, such as with athletes like powerlifters or fighters. However, Andrew Huberman mentions that despite their effectiveness, the use of ammonia-based smelling salts should be approached with caution. Ammonia is a very toxic scent that can potentially cause irritation and possibly severe damage to the olfactory pathways or vision if not used properly. He emphasizes the importance of using smelling salts under knowledgeable guidance and being aware of the potential risks involved 1 2.