What the Nose Knows: The Science of Smell + Essential Oils

How to Get Started + Pick The Essential Oils That Are Best For YOU.

A few days ago I came across a meme that got me thinking about the power of smell. I wish I could remember the details, but I can’t (at least not completely), which is funny because it was about our ability to remember some things & not others. 😂

It poked fun at the way our memory works — how frequently people seem to misplace their keys, while simultaneously being able to recall situations from decades ago with crystal clear clarity!

The author of the meme explained how the mere mention of a “school cafeteria” could bring forth the smell of hot school lunches, sounds of kids laughing & images of metal lunchboxes from the 80’s.

Now… since I already told you I couldn’t remember the meme exactly – which part do you think I remembered most clearly? 

If you said the school cafeteria (specifically, the smell of the cafeteria) you’d be correct.

That’s because smell is one of our strongest senses! 

And today I’m teaching you how to use this superpower to improve your health. 

The Science of Smell. 

I promise not to get too nerdy on you, but…

Did you know that up until quite recently, scientists had assumed our sense of smell was quite basic? 

Newer research, however, suggests that we can actually discern a trillion different scents!

I know what you might be thinking: 

“How can we discern a trillion different scents when we don’t even have a trillion words to describe them??” 

Perhaps it has to do with the fact that our olfactory system resides in the subconscious parts of our brains. 

In other words, we’re picking up a lot more through smell than we realize! 

One study using PET scans showed that when we smell another person, the parts of our brain associated with social processing light up. So… whether we know it or not, we’re using our sense of smell for all kinds of things.

Which begs the question, what else can we use our sense of smell for?

Improving your health! 

In fact, science has already shown us that certain smells can:

  • Improve memory
  • Reduce pain
  • Alleviate nausea
  • Improve mood
  • Increase focus, and
  • Improve digestion

So… what the heck should you start smelling in order to reap benefits like these?? 

So glad you asked!

Essential oils are the perfect way to put your sense of smell to work for you. 

What Exactly Are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. 

Imagine hundreds (or thousands) of pounds of plants, compressed into a single pound of liquid — that’s how essential oils are made! 

These incredibly potent oils can then be diluted & applied to the skin, dispersed through the air in your home, or even used to make homemade soaps & cleaning products. 

When using an essential oil on your skin, be sure to use a “carrier oil”. Carrier oils are used to dilute & “carry” the essential oil into your skin. I love using coconut oil because it contains skin-nourishing fatty acids & polyphenols, and is probably something we already have in your pantry.

Create Your Essential Oil Starter Kit.

Now that you know what essential oils are, how the heck should you get started with them to improve your health? 

Here are the steps I suggest: 

  1. Pick 5 oils from the list below, based on your personal health goals.
  2. Order your oils from a reputable source, such as Mountain Rose Herbs
  3. Order a carrier oil for dilution (avocado, almond, jojoba, argan, coconut, etc…)  
  4. Order some glass containers: roller bottles, spray bottles, etc…(I love the roller bottles!)
  5. Order a small diffuser for use in your home office or bedroom. 

You’ll notice that all the products I linked above are from Mountain Rose Herbs. I recommend them because their oils are rigorously tested for purity & quality. And, they specialize in certified organic essential oils, working directly with farms throughout the world. However, there are tons of places you can buy essential oils & supplies from – just be sure to do your research! 

NOTE: I do not get any kind of commission for recommending their products!

Okay, time to pick your oils! 

These are my personal favorites, and I’ve listed the health benefits they are most known for. 

1. Lavender 

The classic scent of lavender oil hardly needs an introduction, but it can be described as floral and softly evergreen. Lavender has been shown to promote sleep & relaxation and help people to wake up feeling refreshed. Studies have even shown it can help lower blood pressure and heart rate.  

2. Peppermint 

Peppermint oil has a fresh, minty scent. It can help reduce fatigue & enhance memory.

3. Eucalyptus 

Eucalyptus oil has a clean, woodsy, minty scent. It can help decrease congestion & headaches and improve mental clarity.  

4. Sweet Orange 

Who doesn’t know the sweet, bright smell of orange? Sweet orange oil can help lift the spirits, increase energy, reduce anxiety, and possibly alleviate symptoms of PTSD.

5. Lemon 

This clean, citrus scent is the equivalent of sunshine in a bottle. Not only is it the ultimate mood booster, lemon oil can help purify & freshen the air. This is my favorite for homemade cleaners!

6. Tea Tree

Tea tree oil has a green, woodsy, medicinal scent. It has antimicrobial properties and is another great option for purifying the air in your home or office. 

7. Frankincense 

Sometimes called the king of oils, the use of frankincense dates back to biblical times. It has a sweet, warm, woodsy scent. Studies show it can help with respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis, and it can even help relieve pain associated with cluster headaches.  

8. Clary Sage 

Clary sage oil has an earthy, floral, fruity scent. It’s a wonderful oil for reducing stress, and it has been shown to reduce blood pressure and respiratory rate. It can also help enhance focus and memory. 

9. Jasmine 

Jasmine oil has an exotic, floral scent. It can boost your mood, and it may have aphrodisiac properties

10. Sandalwood

Sandalwood oil has a sweet, dry, woodsy scent. It has been used to help alleviate depression and improve focus.  

Putting Your Essential Oils to Use.

Once you’ve received your new oils + supplies, it’s time to put them to work!

There are so many fun ways to use essential oils, but here are five to get you started.  

1. Make some “All Purpose Cleaner”:

In a 16 oz. glass spray bottle, combine:

  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 1 3/4 cups water
  • 30 drops of lemon oil

2. Create a “Stress Away” Roller 

  • Remove the roller ball from the top of the bottle
  • Add 30 drops of lavender oil or another calming oil
  • Fill the rest of the bottle with your carrier oil
  • Close & shake well
  • Apply to wrists and/or back of the neck
  • Store in your desk drawer or purse 

3. Experiment with your new diffuser 

  • Try sweet orange oil when you feel stressed or anxious 
  • Try sage oil when you’re trying to focus or study 
  • Mix it up, and see how your body responds!

4. Make Some Pillow Spray 

  • Add 20 drops of lavender oil w/ distilled water in a mini spray bottle (100 ml)
  • Lightly spray your pillow before bed for relaxation & easier sleep

5. Peppermint Rub for Congestion

  • Mix 1 part peppermint oil with 3 to 6 parts carrier oil
  • Test on a small patch of skin for any possible allergic reaction 
  • If no reaction occurs, apply the diluted rub to your chest

How to Use Essential Oils Safely.

One common misconception I want to clear up is this:

Natural doesn’t necessarily mean safe! 

Whenever you’re trying something new, it’s important to do so safely. Here are some tips for using essential oils safely:

1. Never ingest essential oils. Although some essential oils can be safely ingested in small quantities, this should ONLY be done under the guidance of a knowledgeable physician. 

2. If applying directly to the skin, always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil. Because allergic reactions can occur, always test on a small patch of skin first.

3. Keep essential oils safely locked away from pets and children. 

4. Store in dark glass bottles & away from heat & light. Some essential oils are combustible. Fabrics stained with essential oil can catch fire in the dryer, and oils left in a hot car can cause car fires.

5. Some essential oils can be toxic to pets, children & sensitive individuals. Before diffusing any essential oil, make sure it’s safe to use around children and pets.  

6. Always read labels. Only purchase pure essential oils. The label should include the Latin name of the plant & the country the plant was harvested in.

Still Curious About Essential Oils?

I hope you’ve found this helpful! 

If you have questions about using essential oils, schedule a consultation with me. 

I can help you choose the best oils and blends, and we can discuss the safe use of each so that you feel confident introducing them into your home & personal-care routine. 

 

RESOURCES:

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24653035/

2. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hbm.21035

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4505755/

4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33534425/

5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15708642/

6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18041606/

7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9354706/

8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4700683/

9. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/04/170424141354.htm

10. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30795725/

11. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35744913/

12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27117114/

13. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18041606/

14. https://he01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jhealthres/article/view/85772

15. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5241490/

Happy Patients

I have had back issues most of my life. Since starting treatments with Dr Greg I have had no more issues. It's such a relief to be able to be physical at the high level I want to be. I am able to maintain wellness by seeing Dr Greg on a regular basis. Thank you Dr Greg!!

Michael L.

Hello! I just want to say that you are truly a healer! After leaving your office last Monday, I was more able to breathe, truly breathe - after having suffered all weekend to take a deep breath due to a "rib out of place" OK - if you say so....all I know is that, though I continued to have a bit of pain in my upper back and neck for a day or two, I could take wonderful, glorious deep breaths thanks to your treatment. Thanks again for all you do! Even if I do make many sound affects while you are treating me - "OUCH!!! Hmmmph!! Ughhh!! Really???" I truly appreciate your healing touch....

MMW

I have had Parkinson's Disease for 8 years.  I have developed arthritis in my back and hips. The stiffness of the Parkinson's and the arthritis has caused me a lot of pain. Because of that unrelenting pain I was unable to exercise. Exercise is an important part of pain management for Parkinson's.  Since I have been seeing Dr. Krapf I am feeling much better and his care has allowed me to begin exercising again, which has improved my overall well being. In the past I have been treated by physical therapists and orthopedists. Dr. Krapf's chiropractic manipulations have had an amazing impact on my health and happiness. I highly recommend Dr. Krapf to anyone who needs excellent chiropractic care and the many alternative therapies he offers. I would say he is magical!

When my friend received excellent care from Dr. Krapf, she recommended him to me. I have had gastrointestinal problems for nearly 50 years that have recently been diagnosed with celiac disease with lactose intolerance. All that, including unrelieved stress had made me unhappy and unhealthy. Today I am a different person with the help of Dr. Greg. The Gastro issues are practically nonexistent, my stress levels have plummeted, and my body is changing. I am so grateful for Dr. Greg and his healing hands.

Mary Ann L.

Our family have been patients of Krapf chiropractic for a few decades. We have several success stories archived. The most recent event involves our youngest son who is completing his senior year of high school. He has been a patient of Krapf Chiropractic (KCA) since birth. He has been an avid soccer player since the age of four and has sustained numerous injuries over the years. Dr. Krapf has successfully assisted in every recovery.

Most recently, he began complaining of his feet hurting while playing soccer. Both feet hurt - particularly the balls of his feet while running and cutting. He came to Dr. Greg with his complaint as this was seriously affecting his game. Dr. Greg evaluated the situation and decided a foot scan should be done. The finding was dropped arches. My son was fitted for orthotics. They arrived within days and he wore these as directed. Within a few short weeks he is now playing full games pain free.

SC

I first called Krapf Chiropractic when my back was so bad that I couldn't get up off the floor. It's been a blessing to have Dr. Greg help me with my overall wellness and health! I find this to be a place where you are not a number and everyone cares. Mollie is always cheerful and reminds me to come. Erin is always smiling and helps relax me when I'm in pain. I would not be functioning if I did not have Krapf Chiropractic to keep me going. As I get older my appreciation deepens, especially when I see people around me who are suffering with back problems. If they only knew how helpful this is. I believe Dr. Greg treats the person not the symptoms. Thank you

Debbie B.

I've been lucky to have exceptional health care from the beginning. At the beginning, seventy-six-plus years ago, Hugh Rodgers brought me into the world in mother and dad's second-floor bedroom in our dairy farm home. Hugh's son, Hugh, Jr., practiced with his dad and beyond caring for my parents, he, also, cared for hundreds of others and me. Roughly forty years ago, a friend suggested I make an appointment with Richard Krapf for help with back-pain. Richard treated the pain that, often, was debilitating, and on Richard's death, his son, Greg became the second second generation to help me from one place to another. I'm grateful to Hugh, Hugh, Richard and, perhaps, most of all, to Greg.

N.C.

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