|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Sense of Smell and Emotional Response
Smell is a specialised chemical sense. It is interesting to note that the olfactory cells are the only place in the human body where the central nervous system is in direct contact with the external environment. When we detect the smell of something, there is a direct contact between the molecules of scent and our own receptors.
The message regarding the molecule of scent is passed along the olfactory nerve to the nerve centre in the brain. The neurons of the olfactory nerve, control the inner responses, i.e. emotions and memories, as well as the body's hormones. There is no generally accepted classification of the basic types of smells recognized by man. The sense of smell can be very sensitive, sensing minute concentrations of some substances in the air.
There is considerable individual variation in the activity of the sense of smell. Adaption can occur to pleasant as well as nasty smells, due to changes in both the receptors and the central connections.
It is important to remember that the inhalation of the aromas of essential oils also has a profound and instantaneous effect on us today. The limbic lobe of the brain receives information about smell via the olfactory nerve and this part of the brain is also concerned with our emotional memory. The limbic system produces the autonomic responses that accompany emotional states and behaviours.
Particular scents can trigger strong, emotional responses which are pleasant or unpleasant according to our own individual experience. Which smells do you find repellent? What are your favourite scents? Perhaps the perfume of a favourite blossom or newly-mown grass, the scents of the garden after light summer rain, the smell of your favourite meal cooking or the perfume worn by a friend, the special scent of a baby or small child.
When oils are inhaled, micro-molecules of essential oils travel through the nasal passages to the limbic system of the brain which is the seat of memory and emotion.
The breathing in of essential oils is thought to trigger memories and emotions within the limbic system, which in turn stimulates a response within the entire system.
With the memory comes instant recall of the associated emotion - pleasure, happiness, laughter, affection or perhaps sadness, pain, grief.
For this reason, it is important to always heed the emotional responses to the aroma of the essential oils you intend to use. If the scent is in any way repellent, then it is wise to adjust your choice of oils for your blend. The subconscious, emotional responses are telling you something of vital importance and you would be wise to listen. Otherwise, you severely curtail the degree of benefit given.
Smell takes a direct, physical route to the brain because they employ nerve cells as transmitters and receivers. Odours travel directly through the olfactory system in the nose and the front part of the head into the limbic area of the brain which processes the smell.
Dee is a Doctor of Reflexology, Homeopathic Practitioner, Certified Aromatherapist, and Reiki Master. Her site is AkobiAromas.com - a source of quality aromatherapy, herbal and reflexology information and products.
CNN - 6 hours ago
Several alternative treatments have been shown to be safe and effective for kids, experts say. "We would both end up miserable," says Kruse-Field. ...
Wall Street Journal - 18 hours ago
By GUY CHAZAN As Europe counts the cost of Russia's latest gas shut-off, there are signs it could give a boost to alternative sources of gas that currently ...
Video: The gas crisis in Europe online france24english
Europe late with alternative to Russian gas TREND Information
Gas war may boost alternative routes to Europe guardian.co.uk
Canada.com - International Herald Tribuneall 7,224 news articles
CNET News
CNET News, CA - 23 hours ago
After hinting at a "digital stereo" product in The New York Times last week, Cisco unveiled the details of its Wireless Home Audio System today, ...
CNET News
CNET News, CA - 20 hours ago
In an effort to trump the existing Nintendo Wii remote controller, Nyko is introducing what the company is calling the most advanced Wii remote yet. ...
Nyko brings Wand Wii remote, Charge Station EX and Kama Charge kit ... engadget
all 9 news articles
The Associated Press
Columbia Daily Tribune, MO - 2 hours ago
By DAVE MATTER In our country, if you don’t like the hand you’re dealt in this game called life, you always have this option: Sue the pants off someone. ...
Shanoff's Wake-Up Call: Who's No. 1, Too? SportingNews.com
BCS brings undisputed uncertainty USA Today
The BCS: Even Conservatives Want Government Intervention Human Events
Daily Pressall 1,185 news articles
Boston Globe
New York Times, United States - Jan 6, 2009
Pratt, which has tested alternate fuels in its engines, and others in the aviation industry assert that they will pursue alternatives even in a period of ...
Aviation industry strives to find alternative fuels SmartBrief
Continental ratchets up race to develop alternative fuel for planes GulfNews
Continental First US Airline to Test Biofuels SmarterTravel.com
Scientific American - Bloombergall 257 news articles
Boston Globe, United States - Jan 7, 2009
"Where should I put my money right now? I don't feel comfortable investing in stocks, and I've heard that Treasury bonds are paying next to nothing. ...
MSNBC - Jan 7, 2009
Since the 1960s, Fuel System Solutions' transportation subsidiary, BRC, based in Cherasco, Italy, has been a major provider of alternative fuel systems ...
TheStreet.com - 7 hours ago
The Wall Street Journal recently published an article exploring the merits of alternative assets. It included mea culpas from investment managers who had ...
Macworld, CA - 7 hours ago
by Rob Griffiths, Macworld.com One of the things I don’t like about Excel 2008 is that setting zoom levels is a bit more complex than it need be. ...
Test Your Indoor Air Quality!
How safe is your Indoor Air?1) Does your home have carpeting?* Carpeting captures dust, dirt, chemicals and everything we track in from the outdoors. Carpeting also outgases... Read More
Benefits of Alternative Medicine
With the growing number of people being affected by newly discovered chronic degenerative diseases such as AIDS and chronic fatigue syndrome, Are you worried or wondering....Is it... Read More
The Benefits of Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is the most common form of relaxation massage offering many relaxing as well as healing properties to your body. Swedish massage combines the use of... Read More
How I Was Overtaken By Evil Eye Envy!
You are about to embark on a journey that only a percentage of the world's population has made. Throughout the journey, you will gain insight that will... Read More
Becoming A Certified Reflexologist
Reflexology is something I've used and loved since I was 8 years old. I began learning about Reflexology when my aunt bought me a book by Mildred... Read More
Jesus Diet - Lifestyle Changes That Will Boost Your Energy
Drawing on the inspiration of loaves, fish, and wine, a doctor from Florida has published a self-help manual called "What would Jesus Eat?". After the launch of... Read More
Does A Compulsive Gambler Really Want To Stop Gambling?
This question most gamblers ask themselves when they begin to realize gambling has affected their lives.Most gamblers intent is not to lose all their money, but rather... Read More
Consultation Guidelines For Hypnotherapy
The initial consultation may well be the most crucial aspect of hypno-psychotherapy, if not all therapies. Everything from the interpersonal dynamic to the eventual success of the... Read More
The Future of Healing...
Your FUTURE is NOT in a doctor's office or a vial of prescription drugs.Western medicine has done a wonderful job in treating our symptoms and masking the... Read More
How to Avoid Potentially Harmful Chemicals in Your Area Rugs and Other Home Furnishings
You purchase a beautiful area rug. You know just where it will go within your home. You know this the second you set eyes on this special... Read More
Natural Healing For The Body
Back-to-Nature AromatherapyBack-to-nature is a new health initiative by people living in modern society. Aromatherapy, which stems from natural plants, has also became a favourite in modern day... Read More
Preventive Medicine - Ayurveda
It should not be hard for anyone to imagine that man sought medicine to maintain life and gain knowledge since the time of his being pre-hominid and... Read More
Whipped Shea Butter & Its Many Uses
Shea butter, also referred to as karite, which means "life" has been used across the African continent for centuries. It hails from Central and Western Africa. It's... Read More
Why Choose Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine is a system and philosophy of medicine that has been around for hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years. Before the advent of 'conventional' medicine, which uses... Read More
Addressing The Cause And Finding A Cure: Why Cause is Everything When It Comes To Low Back Pain
There is an epidemic, at least in the States when it comes to treating back pain. Most doctors do just that... treat back pain rather than finding... Read More
Use Essential Oils and Herbs in a Sitz Bath for Hemorrhoid Relief
Sitz bath using juniper and lavender oilsIf you have swollen hemorrhoids, a sitz bath can help you reduce them and speed your recover. Fill a tub with... Read More
An Aspirin A Day Can Give You Cancer
I want to share a health alert with you. So many people today are taking an aspirin a day - many upon the recommendation of their doctors... Read More
Human Health Modification Using Sun Light and Frequency
Human behavior could be modified using light preferably real sunlight. A person could rest in a hammock while a large fan would rotate at a prescribed speed.... Read More
Lemon and Parsley Home Remedies
You might think of lemon and parsley as great garnishes for your drink glass and plate, but did you know that you can use them to ease... Read More
Headaches/Migraine
"Oh, how densely packed your head is, my sweet," sighs Grandmother Growth. "I'm afraid there's no room for new growth. If you could empty your mind, leave... Read More
The Importance of Touch
Through the simple process of touch, Reflexology is so effective in the healing process. In the hi-tech world that we live in, touch has taken second place... Read More
You Can Stop Biting Your Nails, Heres How!
Are you tired of being self-conscious about your hands and nails? I know exactly what you're going through because I've been there. Did you notice I said,... Read More
Natures Way To Relieve Arthritis Pain
PINEAPPLE AND PAPAYASMedical authorities say that pineapples and papayas can relieve arthritis pain.Research shows that pineapples and papayas have potent anti-inflammatory properties from high levels of bromelain... Read More
Holistic Methods: Color Therapy and Aura Soma in Steamboat Springs, Colorado
The human body is recognized as a series of colors, detectable only in the last fifty years with the technology of Kirlian Photography. The colors relate to... Read More
Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil is one of the most useful products in nature. It has been used by some Aboriginal People in Australia for many centuries as one... Read More
Using Psyllium For Relieving Constipation
If you have asthma, do not take or use psyllium. Some people with asthma have had allergic reactions to psyllium and the powder from psyllium can cause... Read More
All The GREAT Benefits You?ll EXPERIENCE When You QUIT Smoking!
Within 20 minutes ???? you can expect??..... your blood pressure and pulse rate to return to normal. The temperature of your hands and feet will also have... Read More
Hemorrhoids ? What Do I Need To Do?
There are many unpleasant symptoms and diseases associated with constipation. Hemorrhoids is one such symptom and many doctor or practitioners say, "its not a serious condition." As... Read More
Just The Tea FAQs: Health Benefits (Part II)
A hot cup of tea might be just the thing to soothe a sore throat, warm the body, or relax with after a stress-filled day. But tea... Read More
Fraicheur DAgrume (Citrus Fruits): Freshness in a Bottle
Citrus oils are perhaps one of the more popular essential oils for perfumery. They provide a fresh, invigorating and stimulating aroma that is indispensable in fragrances. Otherwise... Read More
Eat Fiber and Avoid Constipation
To have regular bowel movements and escape constipation you need to eat more fiber. Fiber from raw vegetable and fruits is better for you than fiber from... Read More
Muget Des Bois: A Healing Victory
Known by its other name as Lily of the Valley or May Lily, muget des bois is an English plant used commonly as a perfume. Since the... Read More
Using Pain To Institute Change In Your Life!
Why do you do something that harms you? Why do you do something that has an overall negative effect in your life? Why do you do something... Read More
Feuille D Menthe: The Cooling and Uplifting Fragrance of Green Grass
Feuille D'Menthe is a blend of several fragrant grass essential oils, with the main ingredients being sage, vetiver, mint and basilic. The perfect combination of these fragrant... Read More
Ayurveda Approach to Genital Herpes
Dosha theory which help in diagnosis of the diseases.According to ayurveda three doshas or three energetic forces control the activities of the body. These doshas are1. Vata... Read More
Organic Bedding and Organic Mattresses by Prescription Only?
Effective January 1, 2005, California law requires all mattresses contain chemical based fire retardancy for "public safety". This law may become national within a year, and is... Read More
Types of Hair Loss Treatment Currently Available
The hair loss treatments outlined here cannot provide definitive cures for all hair loss conditions, but they do represent regimes that many sufferers have found useful. In... Read More
Herbal Medicine for Diabetes
Herbs used in traditional Indian medicine to treat diabetes seems to lower blood sugar and insulin levels in a manner similar to prescription drugs, a new study... Read More
Are Herbal Remedies The Answer?
It seems that almost every day we come across a story in a newspaper or magazine which raises concerns about the use, misuse, or overuse of a... Read More
Biofeedback: Applying the Mind to Health
What is biofeedback?In biofeedback you expand self-awareness and practice powerful self-healing under guidance. This is often done with measuring devices to train for relaxation. However, the true... Read More
The Safety of Natural Therapies
Just because something is labeled or deemed "natural' does not mean it comes without risk! Anytime you introduce another substance into your body, whether it be by... Read More
Living with Aromatherapy
Places Suitable for Use of Aromatherapy Products: living room, bedroom, study room, kitchen, bathroom, office, conference room, KTV, hospital, car and other enclosed spaces.Aromatherapy· When someone at... Read More
Heres Hope for Parkinsons Disease
Frank's 85 year-old father was in advanced stages of Parkinson's.Confined to a wheelchair...his speech jumbled...his face frozen in a Parkinson Mask...he was hardly more than a vegetable.Day... Read More
Easy Steps You Can Take Today to Erase Hip Pain
...and one of these tips you can get from a sewing class!"More than 100,000 Americans are unable to get from their bed to the bathroom without assistance... Read More
That Popeye Knew a Thing or Two!
For a few weeks the lumps in my throat were driving me mad. To make them go away I was eating more, just to try to push... Read More
Hoshin Roshi Ryu
Hoshin Roshi Ryu is a scientific system for achieving an awakening of the Kundalini. Developed in the early 1980's by Dr. Glenn Morris, Hoshin is a step-by-step... Read More
Make Your Own HGH - While You Sleep!
Human Growth Hormone (HGH) has long been viewed as a remedy for aging and the diseases associated with the aging process. Research published in the AMA Journal... Read More
How Brewer?s Yeast and MSM Clear Constipation
Brewer's yeast can help to ease, reduce, or clear your constipation. If you can handle the taste, add it to your juices morning and night.Brewer's Yeast contains... Read More
How to Use Herbal Salves & Ointments to Shrink Your Hemorrhoids
Comfrey Herbal SalveHere is an herbal combination that contains herbs that promote the healing of skin wounds and blood vessel, is antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, soothing, and antiitching.Here... Read More
Massage Therapy
Massage Therapy is a massage session that takes place in a warm, comfortable and quiet area as you lie on a specially-designed table. Sometimes, soft music is... Read More
CPT Codes; What are you Getting Billed for?
All of us visit some sort of medical office from time to time and some of us make the visit a routine. No matter how many times... Read More
Using Herbs to Relieve Hemorrhoids ? Aloe Vera, Bilberry, Butchers Broom
To relieve hemorrhoids first look for ways to get your bowels moving easier and more frequently so they produce softer stools. I have suggestion ways, in other... Read More