News about herbal inhalers being contaminated has caused many people to worry about the possibility of Lung fungus Or not, in fact, our body has a system Lung immunity Complex and powerful, let's understand together how immunity works and how we will Prevent fungal infections in the lungs How can I?
On the date October 27, 2025 The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that “Herbal inhaler popular among Thai people” Detected Microbial contamination exceeding the standard and announced the recall of some lots from the market for safety reasons
While this news is about a single product, it reflects a larger issue: the cleanliness of the air we breathe and the effectiveness of our immune system in the lungs. Airborne fungi and microorganisms are all around us every day, not just in herbal inhalers.
The body has multiple layers of defense against fungi and other microorganisms, particularly in the lungs, which are directly exposed to air at all times.
Nasal hairs and mucous membranes filter dust and mold spores. If the inhaler is unclean or shared with others, it can easily allow germs to enter the respiratory tract.
When mold spores enter the lungs, the system Lung immunity It starts working immediately. “Neutrophils” and “Dendritic cells” are the first line of defense that can quickly capture and destroy fungi.
Research from The Journal of Clinical Investigation (2025) It was found that the immune cells pDC (Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell) Will send a signal Interferon To stimulate neutrophils to work more efficiently
Read the original research news from JCI (2025)
The result of this signal is the activation of the system “IFN–STAT1–CYBB Axis" which causes the body to create enzymes NADPH oxidase Produces oxidants (ROS) to destroy fungi from the source.
This is one of the body's most effective “anti-fungal” mechanisms, the World Health Organization (WHO) also stated in a report. Fungal Priority Pathogens List (FPPL, 2022) that Aspergillus fumigatus It is a fungus that causes lung disease and is a group of fungi that are of global public health importance.
Medical information from Medical information from Mayo Clinic – Aspergillosis: Symptoms & Causes Identify fungus in the lungs from Aspergillus It often occurs in people with weakened immune systems or chronic lung disease.
Many people misunderstand that herbal inhalers help increase oxygen or nourish the brain. The truth is that the smell of Menthol, borneol, camphor It only stimulates the nerve endings to feel “clear” but does not increase the oxygen in the brain and cannot Prevent fungal infections in the lungs Directly
If you need to use an inhaler to relieve dizziness or nausea, it should be used only temporarily and only by selecting products certified by the FDA. Using it too frequently or storing it in a humid place can lead to contamination and risk inducing inflammation of the nasal mucosa.
| Things to do | reason |
| Change the bottle every 3–6 months. | Reduces the accumulation of microorganisms and fungi |
| Close the lid tightly and store in a dry place. | Reduce the chance of fungal growth in the lungs from contamination |
| Do not share with others. | Prevent the spread of infection through the nose |
| Stop using immediately if the smell or color changes. | Signs of contamination |
| If you have a chronic cough, wheezing, or chest pain, see a doctor. | It may be a sign of a lung fungal infection. |
Lung fungus may seem far-fetched, but in reality, we breathe in the air alongside millions of microbes every day. The key is not to avoid germs, but to strengthen our immune system to be smart and balanced. Good immunity doesn't come from vitamins alone, but also from deep sleep, a well-balanced diet, mindful breathing, and a calm mind.
When we take good care of our bodies from the inside, we no longer need to fear the little things around us.
Phramongkutklao Hospital (3rd floor, Building A)
Written and compiled by
Dr. Pichak Wongwisit (Dr. Bai)
Anti-aging and preventative medicine physician
W9 Wellness Center
References
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