Smell is one of the most powerful senses. Because it is directly connected to the hippocampus (the brain’s center for memory) and the amygdala (the emotion center), smell triggers memory more strongly than other senses. Our sense of smell is a wonderful way to experience all the beauty in the world and when we control the scents we have in our spaces, magical things can happen. Many people diffuse essential oils to appreciate a scent or let the aromas fill their kitchens as they bake. At Hugs, we work hard to combine the right scent profiles into our products to create the best experience possible! Because scent is so important to us, we’ve put together a list of scents that can add beauty, calm and focus to your daily routines.
Lavender
Lavender has been used for centuries to aid stress relief and relaxation. This herb is best used before bed or in times of high stress. Hugs features lavender in two products, The Nightcap, and The Lavender Bath Bomb! Adding lavender to baths is a wonderful way to surround yourself with relaxation and fully soak in the beautiful scent.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit, like other citrus fruits, is thought to be invigorating! It’s a great scent (or taste!) for early mornings, late nights, and those times when you really need to focus. Many people diffuse grapefruit essential oil while studying or working to stay alert.
Lemongrass
Because of its name, people often assume that lemongrass is related to lemon, though the two plants aren’t technically related, they both contain citral which gives off the familiar “lemony” scent. Lemongrass is more earthy than citrus fruits like lemon so it is often used in Thai cooking as well as mellow teas and even cleaning supplies. We use lemongrass in our Bath Bombs because it is often an integral part of people’s relaxation routines.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a flower that is most widely known for its use in teas and other drinks because it aids in indigestion and nausea, but it has many other benefits as well. Some people use chamomile topically (like in clay masks and oils) as part of a treatment for inflammation and skin irritation. No matter how you use it, prepare to be soothed.
Peppermint
The smell of peppermint may bring up memories of candy canes during the holidays or grandma reaching into her purse to produce a special treat. While peppermint is a delicious childhood memory, it is also beneficial to grown ups! Ancient Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians used peppermint in medicines for hundreds of years and it is still used today to treat upset stomachs, soothe ibs symptoms, and help clear the sinus.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a delicious herb often used in cooking and savory baking but it has uses beyond the kitchen. For years, rosemary has been used in many cultures as a healing herb, aiding in stress relief and brain function. One study even shows that the smell of rosemary can help improve cognitive function. Try applying a little rosemary essential oil when you need to focus on a task or work through a new idea or just enjoy it’s aroma as you create masterpieces in your kitchen.
Vanilla
Used in baking, cooking, candles, and lotions, vanilla is one of the most commonly used household scents. Along with smelling amazing, the scent of vanilla is calming and centering. Many people diffuse vanilla essential oil, or apply it topically as part of a bedtime routine or before stressful events.
Cinnamon
Pumpkin pie and the crunch of Autumn leaves are two things that the smell of cinnamon may elicit for you. Cinnamon is a warm autumnal scent that we often associate with baking and apple cider but it has other uses you may not be aware of. There is evidence that cinnamon releases sodium benzoate, which enters your hippocampus and stimulates cognitive function. In short, cinnamon can help you become a better learner!
If you’re new to using smells and scents to improve your day try starting out with one of our bath bombs in lavender, lemongrass or grapefruit and see what you think! The aroma will waft up around you in the tub and encase you in it’s aroma. If you enjoy it, try diffusing essential oils or using them in your cooking! Play around with different scents and combinations to figure out what best fits your needs. Happy sniffing!
