Can the mere suggestion of an aroma affect us in the same
way that our actual sensation of the aroma would?
Recent studies have shown that our expectations about an
odour, rather than any direct effects as a result of our
real exposure to an odour, may be responsible for our moods
and its health benefits. For example, in one experiment
subjects who were told that they were subjected to an
unpleasant odour that they may or may not be able to smell
reported mood changes associated with this suggested smell
alone. Connversely, in this same study, subjects who were
given the suggestion of a pleasant odour reported positive
effects on their moods.
However, in studies where odourless sprays (placebos) were
used, subjects responded to a lesser degree than those who
were exposed to scented sprays. Thus, while the mere
mention of a pleasant odour may give us a cheerful
disposition, the actual smell has a greater impact on our
moods and well-being. And although our olfactory sense may
decrease with age, a pleasant smell has been shown to have
positive effects on individuals of all ages.
Is one side of our brains more prone to a certain emotion
than another?
Interestingly, scientific research has shown that our right
and left nostrils do not respond in the same manner to
positive and negative aromas. Researchers have discovered
differences in olfactory cortical neurone activity in the
right and left hemispheres of the brain. According to
their studies, negative emotions are predominantly
processed by the right hemisphere while positive ones are
predominantly processed by the left hemisphere.
How does scent effect our perception of others?
Our perception of others may also be influenced by scent.
In one experiment, subjects were asked to rate the
appearances of individuals in a series of portraits.
Subjects who were exposed to pleasant fragrances gave
higher ratings to individuals than those who were subjected
to unpleasant fragrances.
It is interesting to note, however, that fragrances had
little bearing on ratings of individuals with outstanding
features—whether beautiful or ugly. Exposure of
fragrances during testing seemed to only have an impact on
ratings where there was an ambiguity in one's appearance.
If an individual was average looking, a pleasant fragrance
seemed to make him or her more attractive for the beholder.
It would seem, then, that unless we are an Nicole Kidman or
George Clooney, it wouldn't hurt for us to give ourselves a
little spray of our favourite colognes every now and then .
. .
Does the same hold true for our perception of the quality
of things?
Research suggests that this is so. In another experiment,
individuals were asked to rate the professionalism of
various works of art. Not surprisingly, pleasant and
unpleasant odours had a similar effect on subjects' ratings.
Can we be manipulated to act in a certain way by fragrances
alone?
Again, research suggests that our emotions—which to a
large degree control our actions—can be manipulated
in this manner. In a related experiment, a Las Vegas
casino experienced a 45% increase in the amount of money
used in their slot machines when their casino was odorized
with a pleasant fragrance.
----------------------------------------------------
Luke Vorstermans is the founder of The Sense of Smell Lab,
a world leader in the development of innovative products
that use our sense of smell to influence behavior, trigger
memories, manage cravings, enhance moods and improve sexual
health. To learn more about enhancing your sex drive, go
to http://www.scentuellepatch.com
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