Jakarta, goldensamoyed Indonesia
—
Thai inhaler
known as ya dom has long been a mandatory item for local residents and a favorite souvenir for
tourists
.The shape is small, the aroma is strong, and the sensation is refreshing.
However, recently, this popular product was in the spotlight after Thai authorities confiscated more than two million Hong Thai brand herbal inhalers because they were indicated to be contaminated with bacteria.
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The Thai government stated that the Hong Thai Herbal Formula 2 product failed to meet the standard microbial contamination test from the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA).Following these results, the company withdrew the product from the market and closed a number of illegal factories producing similar brands.
Why are Thai inhalers so popular?
For Thai people, dom is not just a breathing aid, but part of their daily lifestyle.This tiny inhaler is easy to find everywhere, from traditional markets to modern offices in Bangkok.
Thai people usually inhale it to relieve blocked noses, relieve dizziness, or simply refresh their minds in the hot tropical weather.
The word ya dom itself means ‘medicine to be inhaled’ from the Thai word ya which means medicine and dom which means to kiss.This product has been recognized as a traditional medicine by the Thai Ministry of Health since 2007.
Launch
Thailand Foundation
, ya dom’s popularity is rooted in a distinctive herbal concoction that provides a calming and refreshing sensation.Generally, this inhaler contains crystalline menthol, peppermint oil, camphor, and borneol oil, a combination that provides a strong aroma as well as a cooling effect.
For some Thais, carrying an inhaler in your bag is as important as carrying a cell phone.There is a sense of calm knowing that this small object is always there to help when you have a headache, motion sickness, or just need ‘instant fresh air’.
It’s not surprising that tourists, including from Indonesia, like to buy Thai inhalers as souvenirs.Apart from being cheap and easy to find in minimarkets or airports, there are many variations, from classic brands like Poy Sian to modern versions like Peppermint Field.
From traditional medicine to cultural symbol
The history of the use of ya dom in Thailand is quite long.The concept of aromatherapy has been known since the time of King Rama II in the early 19th century, when fragrance was considered part of traditional medicine.
Since then, various inhaler brands have emerged and become part of the modern life of Thai people.
Now, dom is used by all groups, from students, office workers, to the elderly.In the midst of Bangkok’s traffic jams or the heat of the day, just one breath is enough to regain your senses and focus.
For foreign tourists, especially from Indonesia, the phenomenon of Thai people ‘sniffing’ inhalers everywhere is both unique and interesting.Many end up buying the product to take home, either out of curiosity, wanting to taste its freshness, or as a typical Thai souvenir.
However, the case of the recall of millions of Hong Thai inhalers is an important reminder that even herbal products must pass strict safety standards.Even though dom is considered safe if used correctly, users are still advised not to inhale directly from the nostrils and not to share the device with other people to prevent infection.
(tis/tis)
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