Copyright timesnownews
The Thai Food and Drug Administration has recalled a batch of popular Hong inhalers and issued a warning after the products failed health quality tests due to contamination. Hong Thai Herbal’s bright green inhalers were found to have abnormalities in the total microbial, yeasts, mould, and spore-forming bacterium count of the affected batch. The products, known as yadom in the Thai language, are portable aromatherapy inhalers widely used in several parts of Southeast Asia for nasal congestion, dizziness, and motion sickness. Apart from being extensively used by locals, these inhalers are also popular among tourists, after they were made famous by celebrities like BLACKPINK’s Lisa, Hollywood actor Chris Hemsworth, and British rapper Central Cee. "The company fully acknowledges and accepts the results of the FDA’s inspection with utmost respect,” Hong Thai Herbal said in a statement. The company said it recalled the affected batch manufactured in December last year with an expiry date of 2027. Thai media have reported that Hong Thai has pledged full refunds to any customers or partners who still have stocks of the contaminated batch. What are the ingredients in Hong Thai? There are many herbal inhaler brands in Thailand with different formulae, but the main ingredients in all of these include: Menthol, which offers a cooling and refreshing sensation, clears the nasal passages and helps ease headaches. Camphor, which has a soothing aroma, relieves headaches along with congestion. Eucalyptus oil soothes sinus congestion and works as an antiseptic. Borneol, a fragrant compound known to relieve dizziness Is it harmful to inhale too much of Hong Thai? According to experts, all herbal inhalers are packed with soothing ingredients, which include camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil that provide temporary relief and a refreshing sensation. However, if you overuse inhalers, it can lead to serious side effects. Doctors say too much inhalation of menthol has negative effects, including symptoms like: Vertigo Dizziness Abnormal eye movements Hallucinations Lethargy Coma Also, inhaling too much camphor can lead to irritation in your mouth and throat, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Experts say many inhalers also contain decongestants like oxymetazoline or pseudoephedrine – both of which should not be used more than once or twice a week. Prolonged use only leads to excess damage of nasal tissue and triggers a rebound effect where congestion worsens, accompanied by headaches, a runny nose, rapid heartbeat, and sleep disturbances. To avoid these risks, doctors advise using inhalers no more than three times daily and consulting a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
