AROMACHOLOGY – COGNITIVE HARMONY
by Chanjot Kaur Sandhu
Chanjot Kaur Sandhu is a skilled freelance medical writer. With MSc in Pharmacology and over a decade of NHS experience, Chanjot specialises in healthcare content and medical communications. A proud member of the British Pharmacological Society (BPS) and European Medical Writers Association (EMWA), she excels in creating accurate, patient-friendly and impactful healthcare content using credible resources to improve understanding and accessibility. Her areas of expertise include website content such as blogs and articles, patient education material, slide decks, manuscripts and scientific articles. Chanjot actively ensures her knowledge remains updated and aligned with standards.
Imagine walking into a garden where the air is filled with the uplifting scent of orange blossoms, the calming aroma of Cedarwood, and the soothing floral notes of jasmine. This is the magic of Aromas, a sensory experience that helps you relax, reduce stress, and elevate your mood.
Science Behind the Nose-Brain Connection
Your sense of smell is directly linked to your brain’s limbic system. When you inhale essential oils, they bind to the olfactory receptors in the nasal cavity, sending signals to the olfactory bulb, which has direct connections with the amygdala (brains emotional centre for fear, stress and anxiety) and hippocampus (critical for memory and learning), thus helping the brain to relax, focus, or even boost your energy. (1)
Clinical studies suggests that certain essential oils may help support mood and promote relaxation. Due to these observed effects, they are sometimes referred to as “Neuroscents”. Some essential oils are also believed to influence serotonin levels – also known as “happy hormone” – while potentially supporting the body’s response to stress and modulating cortisol, the primary stress hormone. (15)
So, what makes this particular blend of oils so special? Let’s take a closer look.
1. Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) – Often referred to as the “happy oil” due to its uplifting citrus aroma, bergamot is a part of our TRAVEL MIST which also include jasmine and neroli flower water. This alcohol-free mist offers a refreshing combination of citrus and floral notes, ideal for creating a pleasant and calming environment when you are on the go. Spray around your face and body (avoiding direct contact with eyes. Use appropriate sunscreen before sun protection. (2)
2. Neroli (Citrus aurantium subsp. Amara or Bigaradia) – Neroli’s delicate floral and citrus scent is often used to create a soothing atmosphere and may complement a holistic wellbeing routine. (15)
3. Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) – Known for its warm, herbal aroma, is often used in blends to support sense of calm. Our AURA SPRAY includes clary sage and thoughtfully crafted to create a soothing atmosphere and refresh your surroundings. (6)
4. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)- Lavender is aften described as a classic neuroscent and widely used in aromatherapy to support relaxation. Our SLEEP MIST is a blend of lavender, Roman chamomile, sandalwood and other carefully selected oils. It helps creating a peaceful atmosphere as a part of your evening routine. (12), (15)
Did you know? Some studies suggest that inhaling lavender essential oil twice daily for 20 minutes may help support overall wellbeing during menopause. It helps reducing menopausal symptoms like hot flushes and sleep disturbances, hence improving emotional balance. Additional research also includes that topical application of lavender oil may be associated with enhanced sleep quality, though results vary. (4)
5. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) – It is one of the gentle ingredients traditionally used in aromatherapy to promote emotional balance and relaxation. Chamomile is known for its soft and calming scent. It is featured in our SLEEP MIST a water-based formula design to use around the face, body and space around you. (15)
6. Jasmine (Jasminum officianale) – Jasmine is often appreciated for its ability to create soothing atmosphere and support emotional wellbeing. (15)
7. Ylang-Ylang (Cananga odorata) – With its sweet, floral scent, ylang-ylang is often used for its ability to support relaxation. (15)
8. Cedarwood (Cedrus) – Known for its warm, woodsy aroma, cedarwood is associated with grounding effects, often used to support mental clarity during times of stress. (15)
9. Orange Oil (Citrus Sinensis) – Orange oil is commonly used in aromatherapy to refresh the senses and uplift the mood with its citrusy aroma. (15)
10. Peppermint (Mentha piperita) – Traditionally valid for its invigorating scent, peppermint is often used in aromatherapy to promote alertness and sense of positivity. (4)
11. Rosemary Oil (Salvia rosmarinus / Rosmarinus officianalis) – Used to promote mental clarity, rosemary’s herbal aroma is associated with improved alertness and focus. Some studies suggest that it may support memory and reduce stress. (13), (7), (15)
12. Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) – Frankincense is traditionally used in aromatherapy to promote senses of inner balance, and it is known for its grounding and resinous scent. (4)
13. Geranium (Geranium Maculatum) – Geranium oil is often used to support emotional harmony and its commonly associated with mood lifting effects.(4)
14. Lemon Oil (Citrus limon) – The bright zesty aroma of lemon oil is widely appreciated for its refreshing properties and often used to support mental clarity and a positive mood. (4)
15. Sandalwood (Santalum) – A warm woody aroma, sandalwood is also a well known neuroscent traditionally used in aromatherapy to support relaxation and mental clarity. Emerging research suggests that it may play a vital role in modulating stress responses. (3)
Disclaimer
Effects may vary from person to person.
Some people may have allergic reactions. We highly recommend a patch test.
The study of neuroscent is an emerging field and more clinical research is needed.
The products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Essential oils may help support relaxation and create a calming atmosphere. However, they are not substitutes for medicine or mental health care. Please consult a healthcare professional for emotional or physical concerns.