The Power of Aroma

In a previous blog about the Benefits of Essential Oils I spoke about inhaling the aromas of essential oils and how it stimulates the olfactory system, i.e. our sense of smell.

Following on from that blog I got to thinking about aromas and how they impact us, how there are smells that make us smile and smells that can make us grimace. For me when I smell newly cut grass it evokes memories of Saturday afternoon’s in my childhood home – Saturday was chore day and at certain times of the year one chore on the list was grass cutting. I personally always feel happy and content when I smell freshly cut grass, like a sense of satisfaction. This got me thinking - why does this smell have this effect on me?

During my studies and research, I have learned that the olfactory nerve is activated by the smell receptors in the nose, this then transmits impulses to the brain. As the olfactory nerve is linked to the part of our brain that accesses memory recall, mood and emotions – aroma, memory and emotions are very closely linked. So based on this i.e. that the smell, memory and emotions are closely linked - what was causing me to feel happy, content and satisfied by the smell of freshly cut grass? Just the smell of freshly cut grass? There was also the point that in our house when you had finished your chores then the rest of day was yours to go and play in the neighbourhood with your friends. So, with the combination of the smell of the cut grass, memory of the outcome; i.e. the satisfaction of looking at a neater lawn and playing with friends I am transported to a different time and place for a short period. 😊 Helen Keller said it nicely in the following quote;

“Smell is the potent wizard that transports you across thousands of miles and all the years you have lived”

As a species our sense of smell has been critical to our survival as we used our sense of smell to avoid danger such as predators, poisonous plants, and fires. In the animal kingdom cats arch their backs at the smell of a rival, and mice scurry at the scent of a fox. We, and other animals, use or sense of smell to select a mate 😉. The body odour and pheromones of a potential mate can play a big part in determining if we proceed. It is common for both sexes to use artificial scents to enhance their perceived appeal but if one partner does not like what they smell then chances are that their advances may not be successful.

Our sense of smell is a big factor in our physical survival and research has shown that the power of aromas can be beneficial to our emotional wellbeing. Historically aromas have been used for mood altering properties and, in some cases, mystical states of consciousness. Some aromas can help your body and mind to relax and let go and have a subtle yet holistic effect of the body. When you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious, or just in the mood to smell something delightful, give yourself some love with an aroma that transports you to a place of joy and contentment.

Do you have a favourite aroma? What aromas transport you to a different time and place?

#newblog #powerofaroma #powerofsmell #olfactorysystem #eazential #essentialoils