Olfactory Training: Reclaiming our Wellbeing

The connection between the sense of smell and memory offers a promising avenue for enhancing cognitive, emotional, and mental health, thereby contributing to overall wellbeing. This research explores how olfactory stimuli relate to memory and emotion, aiming to expand understanding of the effects of scent-based interventions on mental health. Utilizing a 12-week longitudinal phenomenological approach with experimental components, the study engaged seven participants in a regimen of olfactory training twice daily. Participants used essential oils—citrus, cloves, eucalyptus, and rose—applied to cotton and kept in sealed containers, along with a pen and daily planner. Data were gathered through recurring qualitative interviews and participant journal entries throughout the intervention. Analysis was guided by ten pre-established themes, which also informed interview questions. While some individuals showed improvement, results varied across participants. These outcomes indicate that olfactory training holds potential as a nonpharmacologic strategy to promote neuroplasticity and synaptic resilience, consistent with theories highlighting the environment's role in brain adaptability. Notable limitations included the researcher’s dual role as interviewer and analyst, possible influence of social desirability, unclear journaling instructions, and inconsistent participant compliance. Nevertheless, findings point to the value of scent-based methods as complementary tools for mental health professionals, community initiatives, and educational environments. Further studies should investigate best practices for application, accommodations for allergies or sensitivities, and the development of standardized training procedures.