The Science of Scent Part 2: Aromatherapy and Cognitive Function
Last time, we discussed how the healing power of aromatherapy can benefit our psychological health, helping us to feel better, sleep better, and stress less. But there’s more! Various therapeutic plant-derived essential oils can also positively impact our memory function and our overall cognitive health. So, let’s find out more.
Aromatherapy and our brain
Extractions from a range of leaves, flowers, roots, stems, and other plant parts can not only improve our mental health, but also aid in the optimal functioning of our brain. Did you know that through particularly the inhalation of certain aromatic compounds, we can help to:
modulate our cognitive processes
protect against age-related cognitive decline
stimulate neural activity?
An array of studies into the topic have revealed that specific aromatic compounds, such as rosemary, jasmine, cinnamon, and peppermint oils for example, can trigger stimulating effects on our brains, including:
Improved cognitive performance
Better memory retention
Increased levels of alertness.
Memory function
Sweet-smelling aromatic stimuli also activate what are known as the olfactory receptors within the nasal cavity.
Not only does this have a positive impact on our mental health as we spoke about last week, but it can also help to modulate the release of certain neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, by activating our limbic system (which is a part of the brain involved in behavior, emotions, and, importantly, memory formation.)
Furthermore, selected essential oils have also been shown to exhibit both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This may help to protect our brains against neuronal damage, and enhance neuroplasticity, which contributes to improved memory function as a whole.
Protecting our future selves
Additionally, maintaining a robust memory function and prime cognitive health throughout the course of our lives is crucial for addressing the cognitive decline that is associated with aging and certain neurological disorders, such as dementia and Alzheimer's Disease.
The moral of the story? Never underestimate the power of plants! There are various accessible ways to engage in aromatherapy practices from the comfort of your home. For example, invest in a diffuser and a range of essential oils and use them while you work, or before you go to bed, and see what works for you!