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Thailand’s obsession with “Ya Dom” — The snuff product you’ll find in every Convenience store

Gil Van Dyke
3 min readSep 28, 2024

Thailand is famous for its landscapes, food, and culture. But there’s another quirky aspect of Thai life that often surprises visitors: the widespread use of a product called “Ya Dom.” If you’ve ever walked into a convenience store in Thailand, you’ve likely seen small, colorful tubes by the checkout. These little tubes are incredibly popular — almost everyone in Thailand uses them.

What is Ya Dom?

“Ya Dom” is a Thai nasal inhaler, a tiny tube filled with menthol, eucalyptus, and other refreshing oils. When you take a sniff, it clears your sinuses and gives you a burst of cool, minty air. People use it to relieve stuffy noses, stay awake, or simply enjoy the fresh scent. For many Thais, it’s a habit they’ve had for years, something passed down from generation to generation.

Available everywhere

One of the most surprising things about Ya Dom is how easy it is to find. Every convenience store in Thailand stocks it, especially popular chains like 7-eleven. Wherever you will find yourself in Thailand, you’ll find Ya Dom readily available. It’s as common as buying a drink or a snack — people casually grab a tube whenever they’re out shopping.

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Gil Van Dyke
Gil Van Dyke

Written by Gil Van Dyke

As a Dutch solo traveler, I share cultural, demographic, political, and historical insights via engaging blogs. Support me at buymeacoffee.com/gilvandyke

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