Sniff into Mental Clarity

April 2, 2009

Clinical studies have proven that smell is more directly associated with cerebral function than any of the other senses, and researchers believe that certain aromas can even boost mental clarity.

Did you know a jolt of peppermint can be more effective than a cup of coffee?  “The scent triggers feelings of refreshment and invigoration, which help people perform tasks with more energy and speed,” explains Rachel Herz, a visiting professor of psychiatry and human behavior at Brown University Medical School.

“Different smells suit different moments. Lavender, which increases alpha waves, can induce a relaxed state,” says Alan R. Hirsch, neurological director of the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago.  This is why it is often used in sleep remedies.  It is an olfactory sedative, perfect for the night before a big meeting but not recommended right before you walk into a meeting.

Since our nose can become immune to a scent over time and stop registering the effect, spritz your scent on the morning of a presentation, spray your pulse points 20 minutes before it starts.  You can discreetly bring your wrists to your nose whenever you want a jolt of energy!

Posted in Aromatherapy