Popular ‘nose energy bars’ may be harmful to users

Recently, a product called “nasal energy bars” has become popular among young people. This so-called stress-reducing gadget claims to boost energy and improve focus, but many doctors and experts advise against its use.

On online shopping platforms, many sellers offer related products for less than 20 yuan ($2.70). According to reports, the main ingredients of this product are menthol, camphor, plant essential oils, etc. Consumer reviews show buyers include students, parents and office workers.

An engineer from Hangzhou Laodie Technology Co., Ltd. told Chaoshang.com that they had tested 10 samples of such products by third-party testing agencies, and the results showed that some of the substances were potentially harmful.

Common ingredients found in the samples include menthol, camphor and eucalyptus oils, as well as large amounts of fragrance solvents, the engineer said, adding that unlike over-the-counter nasal decongestants, the fragrances in these products can make people feel dizzy. Report.

“We do not recommend the use of such nasal suction products,” said Song Wei, director of the otolaryngology department at Dalian Women’s and Children’s Medical Group, a large hospital association in Dalian, Liaoning province.

“For children, especially those under 12 years old, their nasal mucosa is still developing, and inhaling impurities may weaken its function. In addition, certain substances may trigger allergies or worsen allergic symptoms.” He said.

According to Song, the nasal mucosa absorbs drugs very quickly. Whether it is children or adults, it is not recommended to use products with unknown ingredients, including some ventilation products purchased from abroad.

“While these products may help relieve nasal congestion, they can also damage the nasal mucosa. Once the nasal mucosa is damaged, it is difficult to recover and may lead to impaired nasal secretions or recurrence of sinusitis,” he said.