OLBAS derives from Oleum Basileum, which means oil from Basel, which happens to be the cultural capital of Switzerland. It's not oil, it's fumes. It's been around since 1918. The 'zon has it, too, but we're only about $0.25 more per canister, and you're supposed to buy from the introducer, which may, in this case, be us. It's made in Pennsylvania these days. You stick it NOT INSIDE, but BELOW your nose, close to the hole, and plug the opposite nostril and inhale deeply, then repeat on the other side. (Roman is demonstrating what not to do.) One canister won't last forever, but you'll get your $ worth out of it. I've had at least 50 inhales. My often congested son-in-law tried it, and within two seconds asked, "Is it addicting?" That's how instantly it works. The peppermint/eucalyptus aroma doesn't stay for long, but the clearing effects seem to last a lot longer. Results may vary, but let's just say OLBAS inhalers are never a one-time purchase. A guy who used to work here used it daily (not addicting?), and eight years ago when I wanted us to stock it, he got bummed, because he didn't want it to become common. He's been gone a while now, we miss him, but now we've got OLBAS. These days I'm super into nose-breathing, even up hard hills on bikes, and I'm tired of feeling like I'm going to black out, trying to suck air through a congested nose, and spraying nose goo on the exhale. So I got some of this, and what a diff. A climb that generally takes me 3: 48 (minutes:seconds) took me 3:24. A hilly route without this took me 1 hour, 18 minutes without, and--I know you'll think I'm turning snake-oil salesman here, but I swear—58 minutes. I inhaled at the beginning, and one more time halfway thru. The 20-minute difference seems impossible, and it's not great science to attribute it to OLBAS miracle snake oil inhaler, but all my splits were faster and..I still don't believe it's the OLBAS, but I know it didn't hurt, and it's pleasant to use. Common use: Convenient, pocket-sized nasal inhaler provide a pleasant, refreshing, and cooling sensation to your nasal passages. Especially beneficial during times of seasonal discomfort, low humidity and other unwelcome nasal encounters. Other Uses: Fast-acting, penetrating vapors provide an immediate, fresh, clean feeling in the nose, sinuses and lungs. Suggested directions: Adults and children 2 years of age and older: 1 or 2 inhalations in each nostril as needed. Children under 2 years of age: consult a physician. USE DURING PREGNANCY: Although many expectant mothers have found great relief using the Olbas inhaler, we suggest you check with your doctor first before using any product during pregnancy.
