The Rising Trend of Fragrance in Wellness
Fragrance has historically been utilized to enhance mood and evoke memories, serving as a form of self-care. In recent years, this practice has gained scientific backing, adding credibility to the age-old tradition of using scents as therapeutic tools.
As Anthony Wilcock, fragrance evaluator at Carvansons Ltd, notes, ‘The use of aromas to enhance mood and improve health and wellbeing dates back to 3,500 years BC. Many religious rituals and medicine regularly relied upon the properties of these aromatic scents.’
Now, with neuroscience providing evidence for these benefits, the focus has shifted from merely treating ailments to enhancing mental wellness. Global project manager at Iberchem, María Ángeles López, emphasizes that ‘there are more and more studies showing that certain raw materials help to relax, energize, and induce happiness.’
Mental Health Benefits of Fragrance
Fragrance marketing manager Vicki Last explains, ‘Stress now permeates every aspect of our lives. It is expected that future generations will experience more stress and anxiety than any previous generation.’
Fragrance can trigger positive memories and help manage stress levels, leading to reductions in heart rates and blood pressure. Mainstream brands are now leveraging this knowledge to create products that are not only fragrant but beneficial to mental health.
The upcoming In-cosmetics Global show from 8-10 April 2025 in Amsterdam will feature discussions on fragrance and wellness, including presentations on emerging trends.
Ingredients that Promote Relaxation
Certain ingredients in fragrance are effective at inducing relaxation and relieving stress. These include lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood. Vasco Fontes Marques Da Silva, a neuroscience technology specialist, notes, ‘Ingredients like lavender or linalool can induce a slower heart rate, generating a calmer mood.’
Camille Dalbert, a perfumer at Ravetllat Aromatics, adds, ‘Chamomile has a calming effect, while bergamot is useful for reducing anxiety.’ Moreover, scientific studies have suggested that lavender possesses properties that can lower cortisol levels, a hormone linked to stress.
Fragrance and Cognitive Performance
Research is also delving into the relationship between fragrance and cognitive performance. Jana Pascual from Ravetllat Aromatics points out, ‘Studies show that scents like rosemary and peppermint may enhance memory retention, which holds potential for educational and cognitive care.’
This growing body of research indicates that as consumers become more aware of the benefits, fragrances that support mental wellness will continue to flourish in popularity.
Conclusion
The rising trend of fragrance as a tool for wellness highlights the importance of scent in our everyday lives. As a result, embracing fragrance not just for enjoyment but as a route to enhance mental health presents a promising future for consumers and brands alike.
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