TheHistoryOf.net

The history of nasal spray is, in many ways, more of a history of accidents that one of carefully carried out research.  That is not to say that nasal spray, which is often used as a hay fever treatment, is not scientifically based.  It’s just that many of the earliest discoveries were things that people and doctors noticed more than the product of laboratory experiments.

Steaming Things Up

For generations, mothers and grandmothers knew that the steam given off by boiling water was an excellent home remedy for clogged nasal passages.  If a child or adult was showing any signs of lung or nasal congestion, they were whisked off to the kitchen to sit with their faces over a steaming pot of boiling water.  Some cultures also discovered the benefits of boiling certain herbs, and even barks, in the water to improve the quality of the treatment.  

In the Swim

Another nearly accidental discovery took place when people searching for an Allergic Rhinitis remedy noticed that their symptoms abated while and immediately after they took a swim.  In fact, hot springs full of sulfur and other naturally occurring minerals and the ocean’s salt water were recommended by doctors as treatments for those suffering from many types of breathing difficulties.

Washing Out

Over time, local doctors began discussing and reporting on the salutary effects of water on the respiratory system.  Researchers heard their claims and began to explore possible cause and effect connections.  One theory that they formulated was that getting water into the nasal passages washed away offending allergens like dust and pollen.  Thus, they developed the first inhaled medications, which were really nothing more than spring water.

Squeeze and Sniff

The first nasal sprays were not really sprays but small glass bottles full of “healing waters.”  Patients were instructed to hold the bottle close to their noses and gently sniff, drawing a small amount of liquid into the nasal cavity before blowing it out again into a handkerchief.  This method was somewhat effective in relieving allergies, as it did succeed in removing some of the irritants.  However, it did nothing to fight histamine production that was already in place.

New and Improved

It was only after the discovery and development of antihistamines that nasal sprays really became popular.  When scientists realized that delivering the medication directly to the sensitive parts of the inside of the nose could actually shrink the swollen membranes and ease breathing, they knew that they were onto something big.  Before long, doctors were prescribing nasal drops to be administered by eye droppers to allergy sufferers.  These were soon replaced by plastic bottles half full of product that could be “shot” into the nose with a single squeeze.

A Favorite Treatment Option

Today, nasal spray is a favorite Allergic Rhinitis remedy in the United States and much of the western world.  While some sprays are only available with a prescription, most nasal sprays are available over the counter in any drug story.  While most users do not understand the history or the science behind this treatment, they are extremely thankful for how well it works.

About the Author

Melissa Cameron understands what it is like to need balance in a busy day with a spouse, children and elderly parents. When she does have a bit of spare time, she enjoys scrap-booking and writing and hopes to realize her goals as a freelance writer online so she can work at home. Melissa loves surfing the internet, looking for deals and learning new things. In fact, her husband has recently nicknamed her The Walking Infomercial!