It was named after Marcel Proust, the french author of  À la Recherche du Temps Perdu (In Search of Lost Time or Remembrance of Things Past), when he wrote around 200 pages inspired by a cake smell that reminded him of his childhood and some long forgotten memories.

Can aromatherapy have long-term effects on the brain?

To have any long-term effect on the brain, neurotransmitters must be affected. There is no evidence as yet that aromatherapy can physically alter this state. However, the psychological and emotional effects it can have might lead to long-term changes in behaviour.

Aromatherapy is part of a holistic approach to better mental and physical health. Concentrating on the whole and not just the details.

Knowing what essential oils are made of and how to create an aromatherapy product is more than just mixing a few drops of oils and creating a pleasant smell. It’s a fusion of science and art. There are various ways a blend can be approached and different outcomes it can produce. The dose, the origin of the oil, and how it is administered all play a part.

A physical effect can be achieved relatively quickly (with the proper chemical knowledge); however, to reach the full potential of an aromatherapy product, scents and emotions need to be taken into account. They are intricately connected.

It is good to know how the mind is affected by scent and how it’s a very personal and often subjective experience that is very specific to the person receiving it. If you want to use aromatherapy to make you feel better and lift your spirit up, use whatever scent you find pleasant and comforting. That will have a profound effect on your mood, regardless of any research that is associated with it. A pleasurable scent takes priority as long as the primary purpose is the aroma.