Scent is a powerful tool in evoking emotions and memories. From the smell of freshly baked bread to the fragrance of a loved one’s perfume, certain aromas have the ability to transport us back to cherished moments. But why is our sense of smell so connected to memory and emotion, and how can we harness this connection in our daily lives? Let’s explore how the science of scent works and why it’s central to the Ánemos experience.
1. The Science of Smell and Memory
Our sense of smell is uniquely wired to the emotional part of our brain, known as the limbic system. When we inhale a scent, the molecules travel through the nose and directly stimulate the olfactory bulb, which sends signals to the brain’s hippocampus and amygdala—the regions responsible for memory and emotion. This explains why a single whiff of a familiar scent can instantly bring back vivid memories.
2. Why Smell is Different from Other Senses
Unlike touch, taste, sight, or hearing, smell bypasses the thalamus, the brain’s central processor, and instead goes straight to the limbic system. This direct route explains why scents often trigger emotional reactions faster than other sensory inputs. For example, the smell of fresh-cut grass may immediately remind you of a summer picnic, while the aroma of popcorn can transport you back to movie nights as a child.
3. The Emotional Power of Scent
Research has shown that certain smells can evoke strong emotional reactions. Here are a few examples of scents and the feelings they commonly trigger:
• Lavender: Known for its calming properties, lavender is often associated with relaxation and sleep, making it a popular choice in aromatherapy to reduce stress.
“Lavender is one of those scents that instantly makes us think of rest and calm, connecting us to peaceful moments.” As noted by Dr. Rachel Herz (a psychologist and cognitive neuroscientist, recognised for her research on the psychology of smell).
• Citrus (Lemon, Grapefruit, Mandarin, Orange, Bergamot): The fresh, zesty scent of citrus oils is widely known to uplift and energise the mind. Whether it's peeling an orange or catching the sharp scent of grapefruit, citrus oils bring an immediate sense of positivity and brightness. It’s almost impossible to feel down when you're surrounded by that fresh burst of citrus—just the act of peeling an orange fills the air with its uplifting aroma, instantly brightening your mood. Ánemos’s Uplifted Energy blend harnesses the power of sweet orange and mandarin essential oils to enhance positivity.
• Ylang Ylang: This exotic floral scent is known to reduce tension and boost your mood, often used to instil feelings of comfort and joy. The Inner Strength blend by Ánemos harnesses ylang ylang’s ability to calm and uplift at the same time.
• Clove Bud: Rich and warming, clove bud oil is renowned for its grounding and soothing properties. Often associated with comfort and warmth, clove bud has a deeply calming effect that helps to alleviate stress and promote emotional wellbeing, found in our Radiant Hope blend.
4. How Essential Oils Fit In
Essential oils, like those used in Ánemos candles, are highly concentrated plant extracts that capture the true essence of nature. When used in aromatherapy, these oils can provide emotional and physical support by triggering specific responses in the brain.At Ánemos, our carefully blended scents tap into the emotional power of essential oils to enhance your wellbeing. For example, our Peaceful Moments blend uses lavender and cedarwood to promote deep relaxation, while Divine Balance, with its grounding blend of frankincense and clary sage, helps soothe and centre the mind.
5. Using Scent to Create New Memories
Just as scents can trigger old memories, they can also help you form new ones. By introducing a unique aroma during a special occasion—such as a family gathering, wedding, or holiday—you can create a lasting memory associated with that particular scent.
For instance, lighting a Fresh Focus candle in your home office could help you associate its rosemary and eucalyptus blend with productivity, turning it into your go-to scent for staying focused.
6. Odour Conditioning: Using Scent to Shape Mood
Our brain can also develop associations between certain smells and specific emotional states. This is known as odour conditioning. For example, if you diffuse grounding essential oils like patchouli or vetiver during yoga or meditation, your brain will begin to link these scents with relaxation. Later, simply smelling these oils could help you feel more balanced, even during stressful times.
Embrace the Power of Scent with Ánemos
The power of scent goes beyond just pleasant aromas. It has the ability to shape our emotions, trigger memories, and even improve our wellbeing. At Ánemos, we believe in harnessing the emotional power of essential oils to create candles that do more than just smell good—they provide an experience of connection, calm, and comfort.
“A stroll through nature isn’t always within reach, but naturally fragranced products offer a simple way to pause, reconnect, and unwind. Scent is a powerful tool for self-care, yet it’s often overlooked in our pursuit of wellbeing.”
Stephanie Mosa, Founder of Ánemos Aromatherapy
