A new study claims that minimal olfactory enrichment (2 hours) administered at night strengthens cognitive and neuronal functions. This is an effective and non-invasive way to improve brain health.
This study conducted by researchers in California on exposure to different odors during the night could effectively counteract or slow cognitive decline in older adults. It also suggests that as we age, our sense of smell and memory diminish.
A group of men and women aged 60 to 85 years (43 people) participated in the study and were randomly assigned to an olfactory enrichment group or a control group. Individuals in the enrichment group were exposed to seven different odors per week, one per night, for two hours, using an odor diffuser. Members of the control group underwent the same experience with minimal odorants. Neuropsychological assessments (including a brain scan) were conducted at the beginning of the study and six months later.
The results observed in the enriched group compared to the control group in an auditory verbal learning test demonstrated a statistically significant improvement of 226% and improved functioning was observed in the left uncinate fasciculus (which plays a crucial role in learning and memory) as assessed by mean diffusivity.
Study reference:
Woo Cynthia C., Miranda Blake, Sathishkumar Mithra, Dehkordi-Vakil Farideh, Yassa Michael A., Leon Michael. Overnight olfactory enrichment using an odorant diffuser improves memory and modifies the uncinate fasciculus in older adults. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 17, 2023, https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnins.2023.1200448
*Maison Jacynthe disclaims all liability. All information contained in this article is not intended to replace justified allopathic treatment or to disregard the expertise of the medical profession. It is up to each individual to take charge of their own health, to inform themselves, and to make the necessary changes to improve their condition. Therapeutic supervision by a qualified health professional is strongly recommended.
Leave a comment