Concerns raised over nasal refreshment inhalers' popularity among teenagers

Health experts have sounded a warning about the growing popularity of nasal refreshment inhalers among teenagers and are calling for stricter oversight.

These products, marketed as "energy bars," resemble small earphone cases with one or two round columns that can be inserted into the nose. Scented materials, such as mint, borneol, and camphor, release refreshing odors for users to inhale through their noses.

A recent report revealed that these inhalers have gained unexpected popularity among primary and secondary school students. Two primary school students in Tianjin even requested shop owners to stock these nasal inhalers, describing them as "very addictive." The products have reportedly appeared among students in various regions.

On online marketplaces, these products are often labeled as "harmless" and "nonaddictive" and are priced at less than 20 yuan ($2.7) each. Online sellers claim that these inhalers provide a comfortable sensation and do not harm the body.

However, experts have raised concerns about potential health risks. Doctor Xing Zhimin from Peking University People's Hospital in Beijing pointed out that inserting objects into the nose can introduce hygiene issues and potentially damage the nasal mucosa, reducing the body's defenses against nasal viruses.

Furthermore, the act of snorting has raised concerns about the potential use of drugs. The narcotics control police in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, warned that snorting may lower teenagers' guard against drug use, especially since their values and personal characters are still developing. There's a risk that drugs could be covertly added to these inhalers to create addiction.

The consumers' association in Tianjin has called on parents and children to be more vigilant regarding these products. They also recommended that authorities prohibit the sale of such items on school campuses and provide students with educational lessons to raise awareness of the potential risks involved.