Scents, as we all know, can do wonders for your mood. They can calm you down, invigorate you, improve your alertness, relief stress. Indeed, scents are so mysteriously magical that there is a whole science devoted to it.
Aromatherapy as a science began in the early 20th century, when a French chemist by the name of René-Maurice Gattefossé discovered the healing properties of lavender oil when applied it to a burn on his hand resulting from an explosion in his laboratory.
Since then, aromatherapy has been an area of research and development in many cosmetics companies.
Our sense of smell plays a role in receiving information from the scent receptors in our nose, and then communicating that input with parts of our brain that are responsible for our emotions and memories. So when we breathe in essential oils, these parts of our brains are stimulated, and in turn affect our physical, mental, and emotional health.
There are a few common scents in women’s fragrance that come with their benefits such as
- Invigoration: Rosemary, citrus scents like orange and lemon.
- Stress Relief: Lavender, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang.
- Sleep Aid: Lavender, Chamomile, Sandalwood.
- Mood Elevation: Peppermint, Bergamot.
And here are the benefits of the most popular scents:
LAVENDER
It has calming properties that help relieve emotional stress. It has a soothing effect on nerves and can relieve depression and nervous tension, as well as treat headaches and migraines.
LEMON
It improves concentration and has calming properties. It also has antibacterial properties and can help to fight colds and sore throats by boosting the body’s immune system and improving blood circulation.
JASMINE
Like lavender, Jasmine is also used to calm nerves. It is also widely used as an anti-depressant thanks to its mood-lifting properties.
ROSEMARY
Monday blues? Spritz on a whiff of rosemary. Apart from memory boosting effects, rosemary has stimulating properties that help fight physical exhaustion, mental fatigue, and headaches. The wonder herb can also be used to relieve muscle aches and pains.
CINNAMON
It has stimulating properties that can help fight the fatigue monster and improve concentration.
PEPPERMINT
Try a spray of peppermint when brainstorming. An energy booster, this scent invigorates the mind, promotes concentration and stimulates clear thinking.
Aromatherapy is pretty amazing. Whether it’s for setting the mood at a candlelight dinner, a relaxing bath, or even at work, scents can be a simple yet powerful tool for managing stress or creating the perfect environment of your choice. Your favourite scent can be your trademark, and lift your mood, so you’re walking on cloud nine all day. Have your found your signature scent yet?
What are some scents that improve your mood, boost productivity or make you feel most confident in? Share your thoughts in the Comments section below!
An Exercise In Trivial Pursuits 