The
sense of smell
The nostrils open up inside the skull to form the nasal cavity,
which sits directly beneath the brain. Embedded in the ceiling
of the nasal cavity are the olfactory cells. Each cell has
tiny, moist hairs that trap odour molecules. It is thought
that an odour is translated into electrical impulses by these
cells, then passed on to the brain via the two olfactory bulbs.
The message is interpreted by a part of the brain called the
cerebral cortex. The sense of smell is poorly understood,
but we do know that it is linked to the oldest, most primitive
part of our brain and seems to have a direct link to our emotions.
Change is triggered in the brain
According to aromatherapy theory, the aromatic plant oil molecules
bring about changes in the brain. Some researchers believe
that when people experience mood changes or physical changes,
it is because the smell has triggered a memory. For instance,
if a person feels relaxed when they smell cinnamon, it might
be because cinnamon conjures up pleasant childhood memories.
Popular aromatic plant oils
A few of the popular aromatic plant oils and their uses for
the following symptoms include:
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