For Joe Rogan, smelling salts are a hilarious way to get extreme reactions from his podcast guests and temporarily boost alertness.
In several episodes, Rogan and his guests have sampled smelling salts, with intense reactions that highlight just how powerful these substances can be.
In this post, we share the smelling salt highlights from the Joe Rogan Experience, as well as some recommendations.
Top Picks
Most popular: Atomic Rhino Smelling Salts
JRE featured: Jujimufu
Joe Rogan Smelling Salts
Joe Rogan has sampled various brands of smelling salts, often with hilarious and eye-opening results.
Rogan’s interest in smelling salts was piqued when he learned about their popularity among powerlifters and other strength athletes.
These ammonia inhalants are used to provide a powerful stimulant effect, increasing alertness and focus before a big lift.
Warning: Smelling salts are potent substances that should be used cautiously and in moderation, if at all
Despite the initial discomfort, Rogan found that the salts provided a unique sense of alertness and focus. “I definitely feel more clear.”
“I don’t think you should do it too often,” Rogan noted, speculating that repeated exposure to such strong ammonia could have negative health consequences.
Overall, Rogan’s experience with smelling salts has been a source of fascination and entertainment for his podcast listeners.
- Super strong
- Long lasting
- Simple to use
- May be too intense for smelling salt beginners
What are Smelling Salts?
Smelling salts, also known as ammonia inhalants, are compounds that release ammonia gas when mixed with water.
The strong scent of ammonia triggers an inhalation reflex, causing the muscles that control breathing to work faster. This increases oxygen flow to the brain, providing a temporary surge of alertness.
Traditionally, smelling salts have been used to revive people who have fainted or to boost athletic performance. Powerlifters and other strength athletes commonly use smelling salts for an extra jolt of energy and focus before big lifts.
LIST: The 5 Best Smelling Salts for Explosive Workouts
Joe Rogan and Theo Von Smelling Salts
In these hilarious episodes of the Joe Rogan Experience, comedian Theo Von joined Rogan to try smelling salts.
As soon as they opened the sealed package, both were hit with the overwhelming scent.
Theo Von quipped, “I feel like I’ve smelled that when the kid pukes in elementary school. That’s what they used to like, clean it up or spray.”
The duo couldn’t stop laughing at the intensity of the experience, with Rogan concluding, “Imagine how small those particles are, and they’re just inside your nose.”
“I feel like they’re moving furniture in my DNA”
Theo Von
Joe Rogan and Ron White Smelling Salts
When comedian Ron White, known for his love of cigars and scotch, joined Rogan to try smelling salts, the results were equally entertaining.
As White took a hit, his eyes immediately started watering, and he reached for a tissue.
Rogan burst out laughing, finding White’s reaction particularly amusing given his reputation for indulging in strong vices.
White, in his trademark drawl, exclaimed, “That’s tremendous!” as he felt the effects of the smelling salts.
Rogan agreed, saying, “This is a freshy. Yeah, you gotta get up in there, man. You gotta get this on camera!”
Joe Rogan and Joey Diaz Smelling Salts
Joey Diaz, a close friend of Rogan and known for his wild stories and outrageous humor, was another comedian willing to try smelling salts. As soon as he took a hit, Diaz yelled and started coughing and gasping.
Diaz described the sensation as feeling like he had snorted chlorine, saying, “It’s in my nose! It’s in my mouth! I’m trying to deal with this shit!”
Despite the initial shock, Diaz went back for a second hit, showcasing his trademark intensity.
Rogan, laughing at Diaz’s reaction, said, “It’s tremendous, right? You’re gonna feel good in about 30 seconds.” Diaz, still reeling from the effects, replied, “I don’t want to breathe! I want to hold my breath!”
Science Behind Smelling Salts
The active compound in smelling salts is usually ammonium carbonate, which decomposes into ammonia (NH3), carbon dioxide, and water upon contact with moisture in the air or respiratory mucosa.
Ammonia irritates the mucous membranes of the nose and lungs, triggering a strong inhalation reflex.
This increases breathing rate and the amount of air taken in with each breath. More oxygen gets to the brain, producing a sudden feeling of alertness and a rush of adrenaline.
Effects are usually felt immediately but are short-lived.
Are Smelling Salts Safe?
In small doses, smelling salts are generally considered safe for most people.
However, the powerful ammonia can be dangerous if inhaled too frequently or in too high a concentration. Overexposure can cause lung irritation and breathing problems.
Smelling salts should never be ingested, as they can cause serious burns or injury to the mouth and digestive tract.
Athletic organizations like UFC and boxing commissions have banned the use of smelling salts as a performance aid. They can temporarily mask pain and injury, enabling athletes to continue competing when it may be unsafe.
FAQ
What is Jujimufu smelling salts?
Jujimufu smelling salts are an extra-strength brand of smelling salts popularized by the powerlifter and social media personality Jujimufu (Jon Call).
Where can I buy Joe Rogan smelling salts?
Rogan has used Jujimufu, among other brands. Any brand of smelling salts will produce similar effects because the ingredients are simple.
Are smelling salts OK?
When used as directed, smelling salts are generally safe for healthy adults.
Why do guys use smelling salts?
Smelling salts are mainly used by powerlifters, strongmen, and other strength athletes for an extra boost of energy and focus before heavy lifts. The strong ammonia scent triggers faster breathing and increased oxygen to the brain, creating a temporary feeling of alertness.
Why are smelling salts banned in boxing?
Athletic commissions have banned smelling salts in boxing and other sports because they can mask pain and injury, allowing hurt competitors to keep fighting when it’s unsafe.
