Raise your hand if you’ve ever taken a long sniff of familiar items like scented pens, a loved one’s shirt, freshly done laundry, your mother’s perfume, and so on. We do this to immerse ourselves in the feelings that these scents evoke. The smell of sweet, damp earth immediately tells you monsoon is around the corner. Notes of clean laundry (courtesy of fabric conditioner) give us a rush of serotonin and we feel uplifted momentarily. Similarly, the scent of your mother’s signature perfume ties to your memories of her. Such is the power of fragrance and the human sense of smell.
In the world of aromatherapy and perfumery, there are several scents that are believed to affect our moods, responses and behaviour. Premium eau de toilettes are formulated keeping these insights in mind. But why? Let’s understand the two main biological factors behind this fascinating phenomenon.
a)The Limbic System
The limbic system is a neurological function that regulates/processes our emotions, moods and memories, and olfaction (the sensation of smell).
b)The Olfactory System
The olfactory system is a set of functions responsible for our sense of smell. There are thousands of fragrances that have a unique set of molecules. When we inhale a scent or odour, the olfactory receptors detect these molecules, thereby identifying the scent.
The Connection Between the Olfactory and Limbic System
In simpler terms, both systems are connected by neurotransmitters. When we smell something, the scent stimulates neurotransmitters that act as signals for the limbic system, which releases emotions or feelings based on the fragrance. Not just that, the limbic system can bind certain fragrances to past experiences, specific items, and even memories.
This is the core reason why some fragrances elicit a strong sense of longing, nostalgia or other intense emotions. There are also different types of fragrances that can impact our moods and mental well-being. Let’s take a look at some of the most common fragrance notes found in eau de toilettes and their effects.
- Jasmine
Jasmine is a commonly used floral fragrance and is known for its sweet, exotic notes. Jasmine essential oil is also known to be one of the most expensive essential oils. It induces happiness and brings a sense of harmony. In some cultures, jasmine flowers are also used during auspicious ceremonies. .
- Citrus
You must have heard of the term ‘citrus burst’. This is probably because citrusy notes like bergamot, mandarin, orange and yuzu lemons are energizing and refreshing. Citrus also quells irritability, stress and improves mood. That’s why eau de toilettes with citrusy notes are considered the perfect summer and sporty perfumes.
- Vanilla
Though vanilla is known as a spice, its pods are revered for its unique sweetness. A whiff of vanilla can be uplifting (even more so if you’re a fan of confectionery scents). While sweet scents like vanilla may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it is known to calm stress levels and reduce anxiety, consequently bringing a sense of cosiness and calm.
- Rose
Known to be the most romantic and feminine fragrance, rose is the ultimate classic floral scent used in some of the best oriental, floral and sweet perfumes. It may exude soft elegance but it’s also proven to have calming effects that mitigate signs of stress and irritation.
- Cinnamon
Cinnamon is mostly used to add a hint of warm spiciness to complement scents like vanilla and sandalwood. Most eau de toilettes for men will have notes of cinnamon to add a touch of sensuality. It’s also used in gourmand perfumes with other notes like caramel and chocolate to compose sweet fragrances.
- Lavender
Any list of perfume notes would be incomplete without mentioning lavender. This dark-purple flower is the ultimate go-to for aromatherapists to relieve stress and anxiety. It improves signs of insomnia as well. Sourced mostly from France, lavender is also sought-after by perfume experts as it makes for a great earthy scent that pairs well with other scents like rosemary and white musk.
- Musk
You know that clean, powdery scent that smells like fresh linen? It’s a rush of fuzzy calmness that is never not inviting! The truth is this extract comes from actual musk glands of animals. What’s originally an unpleasant smell goes through a synthetic process to collect an aroma that’s more pleasant and clean. It’s what acts as one of the most common bases for many eau de toilettes.
The fascinating synchronisation of our olfactory system and limbic system is the reason why we tend to have a perfume for each mood, occasion and setting whether it’s a signature scent, a perfume for a special occasion or a refreshing after-shower body mist.
We hope this breakdown helps you curate your collection of perfumes in a more mindful way.