Anti-Anxiety Inhalers: What Are They?

The anti-anxiety inhalers resemble asthma inhalers but are equipped with rechargeable batteries and electronics. These are adjusted to impose normal breathing patterns in a person. All the user has to do is breathe into the device and continue to do so until a sequence of green lights appears. It is also up to the task of emitting relaxing aromas, such as the aroma of lavender. Doctors tested this convenient little device in a trial at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, where 35 patients with panic disorders were treated with it.

Types of Anti-Anxiety Inhalers

Anxiety inhalers are classified into several types:

1. Nasal inhalers for aromatherapy/essential oils
2. Inhalers for essential oils taken orally

Essential Oil Aromatherapy Nasal Inhalers for Anxiety

Nasal inhalers are the least expensive and most thoroughly researched essential oil inhalers for anxiety.

Sticks of Aroma

Aroma Sticks are the most popular type of essential oil nasal inhaler. They are similar to standard Vicks nasal inhalers, which you can use to relieve nasal congestion.

Pros

• Firstly, small vendors on platforms such as Etsy sell it widely online.
• Secondly, pre-filled versions are available to address specific symptoms.
• Thirdly, those who want to use their blends can easily find empty inhalers.
• And lastly, portable, low-cost, and simple to use

Cons

• There are currently no standardized, quality-tested aroma sticks available.
• There have been no clinical studies on commercially available, pre-filled aroma sticks.
• Unhygienic and unsuitable for clinical settings. The patients must place aroma sticks in the nose to inhale the scent, which can disperse bacteria and viruses.

Anti-Anxiety Sachets

Aromatherapy sachet inhalers for anxiety have an exterior cover that can be flipped up to open and resealed, similar to matchbooks. The interior has a sachet that, when squeezed, produces a “puff” of air that diffuses essential oil formulas for personal use.

Pros

• Affordable
• Exceptionally light
• Portable/discreet
• Consequently, Many hospitals in the United States use it, designed for healthcare settings.
• Clinical evidence supports the formulations.
• Avoid touching your nose or mouth.

Cons

• Unfortunately, some people may not recognize the unique form factor.
• Moreover, opening and closing may be difficult for those with limited arm or hand strength/mobility.
• However, no single essential oils are available in this form.
• Only aromatherapy formulas, including one that may reduce stress and anxiety symptoms, are available.
• You cannot replenish it.

Anxiety Inhalers Using Essential Oils Orally

These inhalers resemble cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or vapes. Both heated digital and non-digital versions are available in the market. Diffuser is another name for it.

Non-Electronic Inhalers and Diffusers

Pros 

• Fortunately, it can be a helpful bridge for smokers who want to quit.
• Portable
• Simple to use

Cons

• Currently, no scientific evidence supports the usage of essential oils inhaled orally to alleviate anxiety or stress.
• As we know, essential oils are volatile. Therefore, one should not inhale them directly into the lungs.
• However, many essential oils have the potential to burn or damage lung tissue, primarily if used frequently and regularly.
• In comparison to other essential oil-based products, it is pricey.

Electronic/Heated Oral Inhalers and Diffusers

Pros 

• These can be helpful bridges for users who want to quit vaping or are currently e-cigarette smokers.
• Simple to use

Cons

• As previously stated, there is currently no clinical evidence to show the effectiveness of using essential oils inhalation for stress and anxiety.
• Essential oils, while natural, are still volatile organic substances.
• They should not be inhaled directly into the lungs because they may burn or cause damage to the tissue.
• Heating essential oils degrade their active compounds, reducing their effectiveness.
• Very expensive in comparison to other essential oil-based anxiety treatment options.

Usage During COVID-19 Pandemic

• Anxiety inhalers for stress relief have been available for more than a decade.
• However, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated their adoption by many individuals seeking new and healthier ways to alleviate anxiety during an exceptionally stressful time.
• Clinicians also use certain types of inhalers in medical settings like cancer care and surgical units to settle the nerves of anxious patients before and/or after procedures. Palliative care patients frequently benefit, too.

Conclusion

Some anxiety inhalers, such as aromatherapy nasal inhalers, are suitable for clinical settings. The others are not due to a lack of safety and clinical evidence. The reason behind this is the efficacy and an uncomfortably close striking similarity to smoking or vaping. Understanding how they work and who might benefit will become increasingly important.