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17 scents that can make you happier at home

Deb Goncalves
By

Smelling lilacs may instantly transport you to grandma’s bedroom window, where the breeze wafted in the fragrance of the lilac tree outside. Others may consider the whiff of baking apple pie such a warm and snug experience that they refrain from getting rid of cooking smells in their home. Or perhaps the aroma of freshly cut grass on a Saturday morning refreshes and soothes their spirit. Whatever the scent, it may help bring in more happiness into your home, according to science. Let’s explore the 17 common smells that are said to make you happier at home.

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But why does this happen?

It turns out, neuroscience has discovered that scent has the strongest connection to memory and emotion than the rest of the senses, as stated by Curiosity. This is because with scent, the sensory information collected goes straight to the brain’s olfactory bulb, which is directly linked to the regions responsible for memory and emotion.

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Additionally, studies on fragrance conducted at the Mie University School of Medicine and University of Vienna have shown that certain fragrances lessen the need for antidepressants in some patients, as well as decreasing anxiety in a group of dental patients. This shows the likelihood that some scents have a “clinically quantifiable effect on mood,” as stated by Yale Scientific.

Based on this information, it seems ideal to have scents in our homes that bring up positive memories or get us into better moods. The good news is that many scents have long been linked to positive moods and health benefits, and we can try them out anytime we like!

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Lavender

Best known as a sleep aid, lavender can be sprinkled under the pillow or wrapped in a sachet to help alleviate stress and promote deeper, more peaceful slumber. Additionally, it has been proven to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), bring about calming, sedative effects, and improve cognitive performance. On occasion, lavender has also been associated with increased sexual arousal.

Ylang ylang

This unique scent is derived from tropical flowers and best used to relax and unwind. Pronounced ‘EE-lang EE-lang,’ it’s known to promote calmness, alleviate stress, and lower blood pressure. Some have found it effective for other uses such as killing bacteria and head lice. It’s considered an aphrodisiac by many, believed to improve sexual desire and is often associated with positive feminine energy.

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Lemon

The refreshing scent of lemon is associated with cleanliness and is considered an energizing mood-lifter. While all citrus fragrances are believed to improve the mood, boost alertness, and alleviate anxiety and stress, lemon is the king of the fruit bowl. It’s also rumored to leave a good impression on others when the scent of lemon is worn.

Fresh-cut grass

While mowing the lawn may not be your favorite chore, consider the following benefits next time you need to get started.

Apparently, research has proven not only that the release of certain chemicals from fresh-cut grass gives people feelings of joy and relaxation, but the scent may also prevent cognitive decline in the aging. The bonus is that the fresh smell has prompted some to make fresh-cut, grass-scented essential oil, soap, candles, and more.

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Pine

Pine is believed to help alleviate stress, improve concentration, and fight fatigue. Japanese culture has a custom called “forest bathing,” or slowly walking through the pine trees of a forest, which has been proven in a research study to lower depression and anxiety.

Pumpkin

It’s not just for pie anymore! Pumpkin may have entered a new phase as an aphrodisiac. According to a study by the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation, 40% of men who participated preferred a pumpkin scent, especially when combined with lavender. 20% had a similar effect when it was combined with doughnuts.

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Cinnamon

Turns out, the warm scent of cinnamon does more than just spice up your oatmeal. The participants of a study conducted at Wheeling Jesuit University who smelled cinnamon were found to improve cognitive functioning in areas of attention span, working memory, and visual-motor response.

Apple

Good news, headache sufferers — a 2008 study revealed that those participants who chose an apple scent as appealing had shortened migraine episodes in addition to a significant reduction in headache symptoms. In similar studies, the scent of a green apple was found to possibly reduce anxiety.

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Vanilla

In one study by the journal Chemical Senses, vanilla was proven to lift the mood and boost relaxation. In subsequent studies by the same researchers, vanilla was able to elevate participants’ mood of joy through a mapping exercise. Additionally, vanilla has been used for centuries to help people awaken their sensual chakras and heal emotional conflicts.

Peppermint

For anyone who has ever smelled it, there’s no doubt why peppermint is thought to promote alertness and boost energy. It also heightens concentration, brings on clarity of thought, and gives fresh breath to anyone who chews it. Additionally, it’s been connected to greater motivation and cognitive stamina, especially during test taking.

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Jasmine

Considered a natural antidepressant, jasmine has been proven to drive up alertness while making depressed thoughts more manageable. It’s also believed to help with sleep, soothe frazzled nerves, and create a sense of optimism.

Thyme

Need some help memorizing facts before a test? Keep a little thyme nearby to inhale. Not only is it a known mental stimulant, but it also helps eliminate fatigue and anxiety, gives a boost in energy, and aids in concentration.

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Rosemary

Keep a little rosemary on your bedside if you have trouble waking up. It’s a brain and memory booster, helps with focus, and has an uplifting effect on the mood. What’s more? Rosemary can help fight headaches, exhaustion, muscle aches, and stress by reducing cortisol levels.

Olive oil

We’ve long known the benefits of the Mediterranean diet and consuming olive oil, but now the news is this: We can improve our health just by smelling olive oil. A study from the German Research Center for Food Chemistry revealed that just having the smell of olive oil present at mealtime was able to help participants cut calories consumed — and their blood sugar levels responded positively, as well.

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Marjoram

A serious stress-reducer, marjoram can ease anxiety and wrap the mind in calmness when used as an essential oil. It’s also been helpful for those suffering from trauma in generating happiness during their time of sorrow and shock. Marjoram is best used in a diffuser, applied topically as a massage oil or compress, or by diluting it in bath water.

Bergamot

Another excellent stress-reducer, bergamot is known to lower the blood pressure and heart rate, and reduce feelings of fatigue. It also decreases the amount of cortisol, or stress hormones, in the body. Overall, it improves the mood, energy, and efficiency of anyone who smells it.

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Sandalwood

A favorite scent of many, sandalwood is known to lift the mood, boost confidence, eliminate anxiety, protect the skin from cancer, help with the healing of wounds, and more. Used in Indian as well as Chinese medicine, it has many uses as a folk medication, as well.

Place these scents on a bedside table or anywhere else in your home. However, be mindful of how you may feel, as many people can experiences certain symptoms when exposed to strong smells. If this isn’t the case for you, then enjoy the fragrance as you dive into that book you’ve been wanting to make time to read and relax. You’re feeling happier now.

Editor’s Note: The above article is for informational purposes and not used as medical advice. Always consult a physician before using essentials oils. 

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