When we talk about
scents or fragrance it could refer to a variety of applications. From
the choice of perfume we wear, to lotions we use, candles we
choose, oils, potpourris, etc. It is known that certain
scents seem to effect people in different ways.
Some scents are tied to
certain memories, and if those memories were good or bad,
will probably have a huge influence on whether the scent is
liked or not. For instance, if mom made a great apple pie
and there were lots of good memories of that apple pie, odds
are you would find the scent of apple pie comforting and
homey. Recently when I smelled a suntan lotion scented
candle, memories of being a kid at the beach came flooding
back! Many people have fond memories of a lilac bush in
grandma’s yard. The list goes on and on. You may want to
ask yourself what scents you typically tie to good memories,
those could be a good place to start.
There are categories of
scents that are commonly known to have certain affects on
people’s moods. These are listed below:
1. Romantic scents:
jasmine, patchouli, freesia, gardenia, rose, sandalwood,
cinnamon.
2. Energizers:
tangerine, eucalyptus, mint, lemon, bergamot, ginger.
3. Calming:
lavender, frankincense & myrrh, cedar, almond, heliotrope,
marjoram, hyacinth, vanilla.
4. Refreshing:
eucalyptus, grapefruit, lemon, lime, orange, mint,
tangerine, rosemary.
This also helps to
explain why we tend to prefer different scents based on our
moods. I know mine vary quite a lot, as does my taste in
candle scents. I think that’s true with most of us.
Perhaps it’s time to try another type of scent that you
wouldn’t naturally gravitate to, you may find you discover a
new favorite when the "mood" hits you.
