Orange, grapefruit, and lemon are all energizing and uplifting scents," says Cynthia LaBonte, aromatherapist and herbalist at Newport Aromatherapy. "We associate citrus with cleanliness. Their top notes go straight up the sinuses to the head and make us feel better, fitter, and even more confident and in control."
“Mood Mapping” Shows How Scent Affects Mood
Studies showed that when inhaling citrus scents, most participants said they felt “happy and stimulated or energised”, while vanilla was linked to being “happy but relaxed”.
The power of scent
Aromas of lavender, basil, cinnamon, and citrus are relaxing, whereas peppermint, thyme and rosemary are invigorating. Ginger, cardamom, licorice, and chocolate tend to stir romantic feelings, while rose promotes positivity and happiness.
Vanilla seems to have the most pleasing scent in the world, according to the new study. Researchers tested different smells with 235 people from a variety of backgrounds, many of them from indigeneous populations who have little contact with Western culture.
A common blend for relaxation is lavender and chamomile, which has been found to reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Everyone has their own response to different smells, so trying a few different scents or blends of essential oils can help you find the most relaxing ones for you.
Lavender: This earthy and fragrant aroma is regularly used in aromatherapy, and there's no surprise why: Studies have found that lavender can reduce anxiety and depression, and leave you feeling more relaxed, according to WebMD.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Studies conducted at the Sense of Smell Institute indicate that peppermint oil has mood-elevating properties that make it useful for alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can help to enhance mood and mental performance and relieve feelings of sadness.
A new study recently published in the Journal of Social Psychology says that the smell of freshly baked bread appears to make people act nicer to strangers. Apparently good aromas equal good deeds!
“Citrus scents are associated with mood boosts – they make you happier – or reduce distress so you feel relief. A Japanese study found that sniffing yuzu made people happier for up to 30 minutes.” “The mint family brings a sense of freshness.
A study conducted by researchers from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden and the University of Oxford has found that vanilla is the world's most universally-loved scent.
This research concluded that the scents of Lavender, Licorice and Donuts, Pumpkin Pie (cinnamon), Orange, and even Popcorn lead to increased arousal in men. This makes sense as these scents probably remind men of happy memories, positive emotions and an overlying feeling of comfort.
Lavender. The scent of lavender is associated with feeling calm, and for good reason. It may help lower blood pressure, calm the nervous system, and even improve your mood. 9. Smelling lavender may have a relaxing effect without making your mind feel cloudy or foggy.
Scent affects mood, concentration, memory recall, and emotion. Research shows there is a 40% improvement in mood after being exposed to pleasant scents.
Vanilla and amber scents, spicy shades or balsamic notes are all ingredients that invite seduction. Chypre perfumes intrigue as much as they fascinate with their almost erotic freshness. Bewitching white flowers such as tuberose or ylang-ylang embody the femme fatale, while gourmand notes make you salivate.
Lavender
This oil helps to calm your mind, which helps provide mental clarity. Also, studies show that lavender can affect the nervous system to help with neurological disorders, as well as increase alertness.
One study found that bergamot, lavender, and lemon essential oils are particularly therapeutic. Using your sense of smell, they prompt your brain to release serotonin and dopamine.
Warm vanilla ice cream is a soft floral note with a strong chocolaty scent that drives temptation in young men. Amber is a sweet earthy scent that incites your senses and gives a feeling of warmth. Rum is a highly addictive scent that's sweet and fruity, perfect for driving a man crazy.
Earthy scents like sandalwood, patchouli, and rosewood are strong scents commonly associated with masculinity. The earthy aroma can warm the body and increase feelings of well-being, thereby increasing a woman's desire for a sexual encounter.