Hanuman herbal inhaler

Hanuman: a Thai herbal inhaler with dried herbs in a 20 g jar

Hanuman is made by the Thai company Samunprai Hanuman Co., Ltd. and sold across Thailand in pharmacies and 7-Eleven stores. In 2026 it became a viral hit in China after appearing in a video by a well-known Chinese actress. Like Hong Thai, it contains real dried herbs rather than soaked cotton.

What is ya dom, and why dried herbs?

Ya dom is the Thai name for herbal inhalers. The earliest ones, from central Thailand, were made from dried citrus peel. Borneol, camphor and menthol were added only later. Today ya dom comes in many forms: sticks with soaked cotton, oils, balms and jars of dried herbs. Hanuman belongs to the last and most traditional group.

The name refers to Hanuman, the monkey hero of the Ramakien, the Thai version of the Indian Ramayana. In Thai culture he stands for strength, speed and loyalty, a fitting name for an inhaler that is always at hand.

What is inside the Hanuman inhaler

The jar holds a blend of dried Thai herbs and spices infused with menthol, camphor and borneol. The scent unfolds in layers: first a fresh coolness, then the herbs and finally soft, spicy notes.

How to use Hanuman

1. Unscrew the lid of the jar.
2. Hold it about 1 to 2 cm from your nose. Do not insert it.
3. Breathe in gently.
4. Close the lid tightly and keep the jar out of direct sunlight.

Hanuman compared with Hong Thai

• Principle: both hold dried herbs in a jar, not soaked cotton.
• Size: Hanuman comes in a 20 g jar that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand.
• Scent: Hong Thai leads with strong menthol, Hanuman is more herbal and spicy.
• Another option: Hong Thai Yellow is also a gentler, herbal choice.

For a full overview, read our guide What types of Hong Thai do we have and which one is the best.