The olfactive brain
Our nose is an incredible sensory organ that
any memories we have that are associated with
works 24/7 – even while you sleep, your sense
that smell. Often creating an immediate surge of
of smell continues to work hard. Filled with tiny
feelings – this is your unique emotional response.
scent detectors known as olfactory receptors,
The scent of every aroma has the ability to trigger
when an aroma enters our nose it is processed in
memories, but only some can affect our emotions
the olfactory system of the brain. Located in the
to produce a specific response. Utilising this
temporal lobe, the olfactory system is connected
knowledge, aromatherapy uses aromatic essential
to the brain’s limbic system, where our emotions
oils to influence our emotions – and has been
and memories are stored. This direct connection
proven to improve the overall health of the mind,
generates our response to an aroma, based on
body and mood.
MIND & MOOD 17