Stop and smell the flowers – scents can really relieve stress

Are you stressed? Are your nerves a problem? Plants are coming to your rescue. Take a deep breath and enjoy the scent of lemon, mango, lavender, or another fragrant plant. Scientists in Japan report the first scientific evidence that inhaling certain scents modifies gene activity in ways that can reduce stress levels. Health-promoting plants According to an analysis by Akio Nakamura's team, humans have inhaled the scents of certain plants since ancient times. They helped them reduce stress and sleep, and combat inflammation and depression. Aromatherapy and linalool Aromatherapy, the practice of healing and improving mood with essential oils, has become a popular form of alternative medicine today. Linalool – an organic compound with the intense scent of lily of the valley – is one of the most common substances used to relieve emotional tension. Uses of linalool Linalool is widely used in the perfume industry as a fragrance. However, until now, the exact effects of linalool on the body have been shrouded in mystery. Tests on rats Scientists exposed laboratory rats to stressful situations. To reduce the rodents' stress, they performed two trials—one with linalool, the other without. When the rats inhaled linalool, key components of the immune system—neutrophils and lymphocytes—returned to neutral levels. Inhaling linalool also reduced the activity of more than 100 genes that are most activated during stressful situations. The researchers say their findings could inform the development of new blood tests to identify odors that may relieve stress.