I have always cherished my ability to smell. Delicious smelling roses and peonies make me so happy. And have you ever been somewhere and smelled the scents, perhaps food cooking in the air, or the smell of rain on the pavement and suddenly had a vivid memory from years ago, maybe even from your childhood, pop into your head? And the memory tied to the smell is usually a happy one, maybe from summer camp or your grandmother's cooking? That beautiful aspect of being human is due to the part of the brain called the olfactory system, which is part of a complex set of structures known as the limbic system.
The limbic system, often referred to as the emotional nervous system, is responsible for various functions such as learning and formation of memories, as well as decision-making capabilities along with emotional growth and development. The primary brain structures which make up the limbic system include the amygdala, hippocampus, thalamus, hypothalamus, cingulate gyrus and basal ganglia (identified as a group of subcortical nuclei). The amygdala is often referred to as the emotional center of the brain, while the hippocampus plays an essential role in the formation of new memories about past experiences. The thalamus and hypothalamus are associated with changes in emotional reactivity while the cingulate gyrus coordinates smells and sights with pleasant memories, among other functions. And the basal ganglia are responsible for motor control, learning and eye movement as well as some cognitive functioning. This complex system is the reason why we find pleasure in eating for example, and furthermore why certain medical conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) are associated with mental stress.
Considering the strong emotional component within the limbic system, it makes sense that the connection between smell and memory can encourage good moods. In doing so, certain smells can help to cope with things like anxiety and depression. Lavender does in fact help soothe and calm. Peppermint as well, and even certain plants, like basil. Some folks have allergies and asthma that may be triggered by certain smells/inhalants so it is important to ask my clients about these as they may present a contraindication for using essential oils in our massage therapy sessions. Menthol and eucalyptus are almost universally accepted--used in muscle rubs, and things like Vick's vapo-rub for the chest to help relieve upper respiratory congestion. There are also more natural rubs that use cayenne pepper and ginger, for example “Badger” (available at most health food stores) makes a good one. Diffusers are wonderful, providing humidified air along with a couple of drops of an essential oil. At night, putting in a couple of drops of essential oils in a diffuser, such as lavender and/or rosemary or eucalyptus and lavender, is so lovely and calming. I put on the diffuser with a little bit of some essential oils before bed and have noticed a change in helping me to fall asleep more smoothly. Humidifiers are beneficial for our health while sleeping anyway, and with the added bonus of a calming and fresh aroma it is truly heavenly. I also recommend putting a couple of drops (just a little bit goes a long way) of any essential oil on your temples or wrists when feeling anxious as this may help trigger relaxation and a general decrease in episodes of panic/anxiety.
Happy smelling!