Yadom: Nasal inhaler Thais can’t live without

If there’s one thing more popular than Lisa Blackpink in Thailand, it’s Yadom. The kpop singer helped introduce Yadom to her massive international fanbase when she said that she always carries it around in her bag — the clip then went viral because she pronounced it as Yadom, which is a whole different thing in the Korean language (adult video). But not only Lisa; almost everyone in Bangkok and lots of other areas across Thailand probably has one in their bag. In fact, if you’ve stayed in Bangkok long enough, you’ve probably seen many people from all walks of life sniffing Ya-dom in public. Some even have little white tubes stuck in their noses like it’s part of their body. But what is Yadom, and why is it so popular in Thailand?

Yadom Origin

Yadom (ยาดม) literally means inhaler in English. It’s a disposable nasal inhaler made using locally harvested herbs. Most yadom consists of a combination of eucalyptus, menthol, peppermint, camphor, and borneol oils, which gives a strong unique smell that people find refreshing. Yadom also comes in many scents, depending on the essential oil used.

Most Thai herbal inhalers you’ll find in the market are made in liquid form and placed inside a tiny two-sided tube: the nasal inhaler is on one end, and the other is a small compartment that releases droplets of the aromatherapy oil to rub into your temples, wrists or the base of your neck. However, these tiny tubes aren’t the original version of Ya-dom. As of now, many types of Yadom come in different forms like pens, jars and big tubes

Thailand’s climate can be stifling, causing discomfort like stuffy noses and fatigue, so Yadom was developed using natural ingredients, such as eucalyptus, menthol, and camphor, to provide relief. The traditional version consists of a bag full of herbs soaked in oil placed inside a small glass jar with a metal lid. You can still find this “vintage” version of Ya-dom in the market as well. Thai nasal inhalers are also sold in roller bottles and regular bottles. However, many prefer the tiny tubes because they’re a lot more practical, small, and easy to carry.

The benefits of Yadom

Yadom works much like Vicks Vaporub. It comes in handy when you have annoying nasal congestion. However, in Thailand, Yadom is a cultural phenomenon. Besides opening up a clogged nose, it’s used for many different things. Everyone from office employees to taxi drivers relies on a whiff of Yadom’s herbal scent to fight fatigue, as well as to stay alert, refreshed nervous system, and energized.

The benefits of Yadom include:

• Relieve fatigue
• Reduce Stress
• Motion Sickness
• Headaches
• Insect Bites
• Masking the city smell

Although Ya-dom can offer immediate relief in numerous situations, there are actually no medical studies that support true health benefits. But these nasal inhalers do make you feel good. And once you try using one, you’ll forget what life feels like without a regular whiff of Yadom.

Why Yadom is so popular in Thailand

Yadom has evolved from a simple remedy into a cultural phenomenon in Thailand. You’ll find people using it everywhere – from students pulling all-nighters to taxi drivers battling traffic. It’s become as essential as a mobile phone for many Thais, symbolizing the country’s fast-paced, high-energy lifestyle. Similar to the point of energy drinks like Red Bull, Yadom’s strong scent gives users a sense of alertness or awakening almost like a caffeine rush.

Its popularity skyrocketed when celebrities like Lisa from Blackpink mentioned always carrying it, catching the attention of fans worldwide. Now, Ya-dom is a common sight in souvenir shops, with tourists eager to bring this piece of Thai culture back home. As a result, what was once a local Thai product is quickly becoming recognized globally.

While Yadom has a strong following, it’s important to note that there’s no solid medical research backing many of its claimed benefits. However, the psychological effect it has is undeniable. Much like aromatherapy, Ya-dom offers a comforting sense of relief on your nervous system and can be part of a self-care routine, even if its health benefits are not scientifically proven.

Where to find Yadom

Yadom is easily found throughout Thailand, making it accessible to both locals and tourists. You can buy it at virtually any convenience store like 7-Eleven, Tops, or Lawson, as well as major supermarkets such as Tesco Lotus and Big C. Local markets, street vendors, and pharmacies like Boots also stock various brands. For those leaving Thailand, airport duty-free shops offer Ya-dom as a last-minute purchase option.

Popular brands to look for include Poy Sian, Vapex, Siang Pure, and Cher-Aim, each with its unique scent and formula. Prices are generally affordable, ranging from 20 to 50 THB per tube. While shopping, you might come across gift sets featuring multiple Yadom varieties, which make excellent souvenirs. Most stores accept credit cards, but it’s wise to carry some cash, especially for purchases at smaller shops or markets.

How to use Yadom the right way

Yes, there is a proper and official way to use it. While it offers many benefits, excessive use can pose risks to your nervous system. The chemicals in ya-dom, such as menthol and camphor, can be addictive if inhaled frequently. While the addiction itself might not be severe, it can make it difficult to stop using the product.
To use ya-dom safely:

• Inhale it near your nose, avoiding direct contact with the nasal cavity.
• Don’t leave the tube in your nose for extended periods.
• Avoid sharing ya-dom tubes to prevent infections.
• If you experience severe symptoms, consult a doctor.
• Use a cotton ball or face cloth with liquid or balm ya-dom.
• If you have pre-existing nasal conditions, avoid using ya-dom.

However, it is important to be aware that excessive ya-dom use can lead to addiction and potential risks to the nervous system. Use it responsibly and consult a doctor if you experience severe symptoms. With that in mind to become a real Bangkokian go grab yourself a Yadom from your nearest 7-11 and sniff away!