The Influence of Aroma

Fragrances, whether they are delightful or unpleasant, can significantly impact our mental state, often in fleeting moments. For instance, the enticing aromas of freshly brewed coffee or warm bread can evoke feelings of contentment and abundance. Similarly, the fresh scents of cut grass or ocean air can transport us to joyful summer days, filled with happiness and freedom. But is the impact of one aroma comparable to another? Do natural and synthetic fragrances carry the same weight? And how do synthetic scents influence us, if at all?

Aromacology vs. Aromatherapy

The study of scents and their effects on the human psyche can be categorized into various fields, the two most notable being aromacology and aromatherapy.

Aromacology investigates the psychological responses triggered by both natural and synthetic fragrances, while aromatherapy is centered solely on natural components, such as essential oils and plant extracts, and their therapeutic benefits.

In contrast to aromatherapy, which has ancient roots, aromacology is a relatively modern field, emerging in the late 1980s thanks to The Sense of Smell Institute (a research arm of The Fragrance Foundation). This discipline aims to assess and understand how scents influence human emotions, behaviors, personality traits, and decision-making. Over time, insights from this research have permeated various industries, including health, hospitality, and retail, where scent has become an integral element of customer experiences. Initially, pleasant and familiar scents were used to enhance well-being, but experts later harnessed these aromas to evoke happy memories and boost dopamine levels—crucial for influencing consumer spending.

At first glance, aromatherapy and aromacology may seem alike. However, the key distinction lies in aromacology's focus on the relationship between fragrance and psychological responses. While some argue that aromacology only concerns itself with synthetic scents, natural fragrances are also an important part of its study, thus creating an overlap that complicates their distinctions.

In aromatherapy, the specific scents of essential oils and their combinations take a back seat. The primary focus is on analyzing essential oils—their chemical properties, applications, and therapeutic effects. The goal is to address emotional and mood-related health issues to foster a sense of well-being and restore harmony between mind and body. Conversely, aromacology aims to influence emotions and moods to elicit or enhance particular reactions. Each field employs its own research techniques and objectives.

So, is a scent merely a scent?

The answer is both yes and no, contingent upon your aims and objectives. A scent, whether synthesized in a lab or derived from a plant, is indeed a scent, but their characteristics and applications can vary greatly.

Since scents reach the brain through inhalation and cannot be consciously blocked, all aromatic substances have the potential to affect our mental state. However, not all scents will have the therapeutic qualities typically associated with aromatherapy.

While the effectiveness of aromatherapy hinges on the active volatile components of essential oils, aromacology emphasizes the quality of the scent itself, advocating for the use of both natural and synthetic fragrances. Any odorous material can be studied and utilized.