Smell and smell. Facts and fiction about aromatherapy: how smells affect people's health What effect does perfume have on a person

The ability to recognize scents in the air is called the sense of smell. The role of smells in human life is so high that enterprising manufacturers of numerous perfume products for the body, air fresheners for rooms, creators of special fragrances for home furniture, household appliances, and the like could not fail to take advantage of this fact. The effect of odors on a person who is not devoid of smell is like a magnet. Aromas can attract or repel, cause calm or irritation, make you happy or sad.

The impact of various odors on humans

The sense of smell connects a person with the outside world. Smells come from the environment, clothes, body, and everything that exists in nature has its own smell - stones, metals, wood. Pay attention to how rich the palette of aromas described by the writers is: sweet, sad, exciting, intoxicating, repulsive, spicy, dear, clean, disturbing, obsessive, sugary, insinuating, sultry...

Trained people can describe and name from a thousand to two thousand shades of smells. In Tibetan monasteries, such people were brought up from childhood. They could not only determine the age, gender, character of a person by smell, diagnose a disease, but also reveal the relationship of individuals.

Knowledge about the effects of various odors on humans goes far into the mists of time. It is known that cavemen soaked their clothes with fire smoke for protection, since the smell of burning always gives rise to a feeling of panic, anxiety (a burning forest!) And this scares away wild animals. During archaeological excavations, aromatic substances were found that were prepared 5 thousand years ago. In ancient Egypt, they knew that each part of the body exudes its own smell, and the means for anointing them were prepared separately. Knowledge about smells was available in ancient India and among the ancient Arabs.

The significance of the smells of human life is also evidenced by historical information about African tribes, where men rubbed some herbs and substances and inhaled them, preparing themselves for a fight or for a love meeting. From mother to daughter, the secrets of fragrances were passed on, with the help of which a woman, forcibly passed off as an unloved one, forced him to give up himself. One fragrance replaced another, and now the same woman delighted the desired man. It is known that the priestesses of love at the temples mastered this art to perfection.

The effect of smells on health and the effect of aromas on mood

And how odors affect the human body according to scientifically proven data? Modern scientific research has shown that smells alone can increase muscle strength - ammonia, for example. Others can stimulate the respiratory organs - this is typical for the aromas of birch, linden, thyme, lemon, eucalyptus, oregano. They can, on the contrary, oppress them, acting like the smells of poplar, lilac, valerian.

The smells of hawthorn, bison, lilac, poplar, camphor, as well as pine and spruce in the summer have a great influence on health - they stimulate the cardiovascular system, increasing the pulse rate and blood pressure. The effect on the body of the smells of pine and spruce in winter, on the contrary, is calming - the pulse rate slows down, blood pressure decreases. The smells of oak, birch, vanilla, lemon balm, valerian normalize the functioning of the cardiovascular system. With colic, the aromas of fennel, marjoram, lemon balm help. The smells of black pepper, cardamom, jasmine stimulate potency. Citrus fruits, rosemary and geranium improve eyesight, but worsen its unpleasant smells of rotting plants.

Smells affect the mood as a powerful stimulant, as much depends on them as on the general physical condition of a person. A vivid example of the effect of smell on mood is the effect of lavender, camphor, geranium: their aromas invigorate, inspire optimism, and reduce depression. Everyone knows what a strong rush of feelings the smell of a native home can cause, how not only the sight, but also the aroma of a thing belonging to a dearly departed person turns the soul.

Knowing how the smell acts on a person, religious figures use aromas to accompany various rituals and ceremonies. In the Orthodox Church, this is incense. In Buddhist temples, aromatic substances are used not only indoors, but when they leave, everyone is given a small bag of green powder: if you set it on fire, you are transferred from the house to the atmosphere of the temple.

Many believe that perfumes can kill unpleasant natural odors, and therefore make us more attractive. This is not entirely true. First of all, we must not forget that the causes of unpleasant natural odors are different. This is not only a consequence of neglecting the rules of body care, untidiness, but often also an indicator of the trouble of the nervous, digestive systems, and kidneys. The smell from the mouth signals, as a rule, a disease of the teeth or malfunctions in digestion, the smell from the nose indicates the poor condition of the maxillary cavities, the nasal mucosa. Not a single deodorant, not a single perfume will eliminate the causes that led to illness or non-compliance with hygiene rules, although sometimes a woman, in order to “kill” unpleasant odors, does not spare perfumery and thereby makes a big mistake. The human body is arranged in such a way that the influence of smell with synthetic components is alarming: such an aroma signals the brain about “malfunctions” in the environment, and this causes involuntary irritation in relation to that
and "well" perfumed woman. Therefore, advice to women: if you are going to the forest, and especially to the river, pond, do not abuse perfume. Their smells against the background of natural ones will look rather rude.

How smells affect a person and the role of aromas in communication

The influence of smells on a person is so strong that they often become the cause of like or dislike for another person. It is a pity that many of us do not know and do not take into account the role of smells in communication. Meanwhile, smell "communication" is as widespread among people as it is in the animal kingdom, from butterflies to mammals. Smells secreted by one animal to influence the behavior of another are called pheromones. Especially powerful are the so-called sexual attractants, the purpose of which is to attract an individual of the opposite sex, and repellents - substances that cause a feeling of anxiety, panic, discomfort.

Impressions from constant aromas are unconsciously, but for a long time imprinted in memory. That is why in adulthood it is dangerous for a woman to change perfumes - this can darken relations with her husband.

And how smells affect a person depending on his gender? Perception of aromas in men and women is different. Women perceive smells more sharply, "more conscious", but the power of smells over men is stronger.

Much is still unknown in the science of smells - odorology. However, it is clear that the power of smells is the stronger, the less we feel them, we realize. The smell emanating from a person, we perceive unconsciously. We like his smile, gait, intelligence, but we do not suspect that this attractiveness is largely due to biological, odor effects. I emphasize that repellents and attractants do not have a noticeable smell, they act at the subconscious level, which enhances their influence on human behavior.

Any smell that exists in nature can have a great impact on a person: his mood, perception of the world around him, well-being and even health. This fact has been known since ancient times, and even after many years, fragrances still play an important role in the lives of each of us.

A few interesting facts:

The sense of smell is a very fast human sense and almost instantly transmits information to the brain. At the same time, the human nose has a high sensitivity and is able to distinguish a huge number of all kinds of odors;

Modern scientists have developed special tables by which you can find out which smell improves mood, and which one can help get rid of an unpleasant headache;

Many years ago, it was noticed that there are people with hypersensitivity and those who perceive even unpleasant odors absolutely calmly;

Aromatherapy knowledge has been accumulating almost since the dawn of mankind. At that time, there were not so many connoisseurs of various smells, and ordinary people considered real professionals to be magicians and wizards. Such people could easily find out the origin of this or that aroma, as well as determine the nature and extent of its impact on human consciousness;

The sense of smell plays a huge role in the life of each of us. It is associated with our emotions, impressions, protective functions, and sometimes unpredictable reactions of the body. Sometimes one single fragrance can bring dramatic changes to our lives, filling it with both positive and negative emotions.

Relationship between aromas and moods

Each of us breathes in many different smells every day. We single out for ourselves our favorite and unloved aromas - we want to enjoy some of them all the time, while others we try to exclude from our everyday life as much as possible. All existing fragrances can be divided into separate groups, which have a certain impact on the well-being and mood of a person.

Mandarin, rosemary, cinnamon, cedar, patchouli make us cheerful, cheerful, active and energetic. Lavender, almond, thyme and jasmine give a feeling of lightness and euphoria, having a calming effect on the nervous system. Ginger, bergamot, cinnamon, ylang-ylang make us sensitive and excitable, while frankincense and myrrh fill us with inner harmony and tranquility.

At the same time, there are a number of odors in nature that are repulsive, cause negative associations, and are even perceived by humans as a threat (for example, the smell of smoke during a fire, or the smell of gas during a leak). Their impact on the mood and well-being of a person is absolutely opposite - they provoke the manifestation of depression, irritability, depression, a feeling of dissatisfaction.

Health and aromatherapy

Since ancient times, aromatherapy has been used to cure many ailments and increase overall vitality. With the help of essential oils, they got rid of various diseases; Hippocrates, Galen and other famous healers resorted to such methods. In the modern world, aromatherapy is used for the following purposes:

Relaxation;

Excitations;

uplifting mood;

Prevention of cardiovascular diseases;

Stimulation of the internal organs and tissues of the body;

Positive changes in the emotional state of a person;

Improvement of metabolic processes;

Increased efficiency and mental activity;

Fighting depression;

Treatment of colds;

Removal of inflammation and treatment of skin ailments;

Prevention of health and general well-being.

So, to increase efficiency, the smells of verbena, ginger, juniper, tea tree and sage are suitable. The aroma of lemon, lavender, orange, eucalyptus and musk oils will help to improve mood and relieve fatigue. If you need to focus on something important, the smell of cloves, neroli, nutmeg or rosemary will come to the rescue.

The role of aromas in communication

Scent and communication in the social world are inseparable concepts and often dependent on each other. For example, some smells can affect the result of communication between business partners. The desired effect is achieved by spraying certain fragrances in the room just before an important meeting. So, the aroma of rose petals can make the interlocutors soft and pliable, and the energetic splashes of lemon scatter the attention of the participants in the conversation.

A walk in the fresh air, during which you can enjoy the smells of the spring forest or the purity of the sea, sets you in a calm and peaceful mood. Natural aromas contribute to the development of spiritual conversation, helping each participant to open up and become more sincere towards the interlocutor.

In many European countries, there have long been trends in the perfume industry that are aimed at creating fragrant bouquets for certain institutions: cafes, shops, hotels, restaurants, etc. The main goal of this innovation is to attract as many customers as possible with the help of specific smells and improve communication with them.

Perfumes in everyday life

The term "perfumery" can be interpreted as the use of various aromatic substances that fill the air in a room with a certain smell. From time immemorial, various magical rituals and worship services have been held with the obligatory burning of incense. Today, smells play an equally important role in the life of every person, causing vivid feelings and emotions in each of us. The brain is even capable of associating certain memories with certain smells and recalling them when given the chance.

In modern perfumery, there are a huge number of fragrances that have a truly magical effect on human consciousness. Some of them inflame sexuality and cause attraction to the opposite sex, others awaken you from a night's sleep and set you on a wave of positive, others cause a feeling of inner peace and tranquility. Such a variety of compositions can satisfy the needs of any perfume gourmet, giving him complete freedom of choice and desires.

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Introduction

smell well-being ethereal aerosol

Relevance

The perception of smells is closely connected with the limbic system, which is directly involved in emotional perception and behavioral reactions. Smells affect not only our mood, but also behavior, as well as the general condition of the body. They can change blood pressure, heart rate, make a person aroused or sleepy. Some aromas can bring out of depressive states and improve the emotional background in patients with mental disorders. Smells help to better concentrate, assimilate information, increase efficiency, which means they can be used to improve one's own.

Purpose of the study

Find out the positive and negative effects of odors on the human body

Tasks

1. study the literature on the topic of the project;

2. conduct a sociological study (in class);

3. determine the effect of smells on the well-being and mood of a person.

Object of study

Zampah is a specific sensation of the presence of volatile odorous substances (VAS) in the air, detected by chemical olfactory receptors located in the nasal cavity of animals and humans.

Subject of study

Effect of odors on the human body.

Hypothesis- if odors affect human health, in a positive and negative way, by establishing which odors affect a person in one way or another, I can use this knowledge in order to protect my health from the harmful effects of some and improve it using knowledge about others

Research methods

· Questioning. Conducted a survey among grades 9-10 of MBOU secondary school No. 25 on the use of aerosols and natural oils, awareness of their harmful and positive effects on the human body.

· Study of various sources on this study.

1. The degree of knowledge of the issue

The question of how a person smells and why we have this ability has long been of concern to the minds of scientists around the world. Quite a few theories have been put forward on this topic, but the mechanism of smell is still far from being completely unraveled. Closest to it were such scientists as J.Aymour with his theory (key-lock) saying that if the molecule of the substance is round, then the corresponding nerve receptor has a concave shape for docking. But this theory has been questioned by Boston University scholar John Cauer. As a result of his experience, John found that molecules with a similar structure can use different parts of the brain, which could disprove Aymour's theory. Not so long ago, a young scientist, Luka Thurn, put forward a completely different hypothesis, he said that smell, like color or sound, is determined by the frequency of vibrations, and our olfactory system, in turn, is able to capture them. As a result of the experiment, his theory was confirmed. A new word on the issue of smells may leave Linda Buck from the University of Washington. Using a method developed by Linda Buck's laboratory, the olfactory system has been shown to use a combinatorial odor coding scheme. All this says only one thing, that science does not stand still, and quite a few studies are being and will be carried out on this issue, which means that perhaps in the near future we will be able to find all the answers to our questions.

2. Physiology of smell

Why do we smell?

IP Pavlov believed that the problem of smell and smell is one of the most difficult in physiology and general biology. A person perceives smells through the nose. He is able to perceive and recognize 4,000 different odors, and a very sensitive nose - up to 10,000, moreover, special signals are transmitted to the brain about each individual odor. The olfactory nerves are almost never wrong. They will not transmit a lily signal when the air smells like a rose. Animals can smell even better than humans. Cats, dogs, and horses have such a highly developed sense of smell that, with a fair wind, they can distinguish the smell of a person they know from a whole block away. In wild animals, the sense of smell is even more developed. The numerical value of the sensitivity of the nose to odorous substances is simply incredible. For example, an ordinary person feels vanillin at a concentration of 1 gram in 10 million cubic meters of air.

Aromas from the air enter the nasal cavity up to the olfactory cells (about 30 million neurons). There are receptors on the surface of these ciliary cells. An impulse in the cell occurs when 8-10 molecules of an aromatic substance hit the cilia receptors. The sensation of smell occurs if at least 40 neurons fire at the same time. Even to perform such a seemingly simple task: how we smell, more than 6 million neurons are involved, each of which receives perhaps 10,000 contacts of its comrades. The odor signal travels through special cells directly to the hypothalamus of the brain. This is very important because this tiny organ regulates dozens of bodily functions such as temperature, thirst, hunger, blood sugar, sleep, sexual arousal, and emotions such as anger and joy. At the same time, the smell signal is sent to an area called the Hippocampus, the part of the brain that is responsible for memory and attention. For this reason, smells evoke memories in us. The world of smells surrounds us everywhere and continuously. Dozens of irritants penetrate the human nasal cavity every minute. However, only a few of them we discern consciously. Most reactions to environmental odors are subconscious.

A person perceives only five basic smells - mint, camphor, floral, ethereal, musky. All the rest are obtained by mixing the main ones.

Conscious reactions to smell are when the brain processes a numerous stream of information signals (highlighting the most vital ones), sends a return signal to which a person reacts (the smell of food or gas).

The mystery of the smell has not been completely solved, because scientists have paid insufficient attention to this. Animals with a pair of ears can determine the direction of sound very accurately. Even with the help of one ear, the animal can determine from which side the sound is louder. Hearing is directional, like sight, but smell, like the sense of taste, has no direction.

There were over 30 theories of smell. The greatest discussion was the question of whether the aromatic substance molecule should come into contact with receptors, or whether it emits waves that irritate the receptors.

Eimur's theory (key-lock) explains the smell as follows: "If the molecule is round, then the corresponding nerve receptor has a concavity into which the molecule enters." However, Boston University neuroscientist John Cauera discovered that this theory was flawed. In an experiment using a tomograph, Cauer found that three closely related chemicals - esters of acetic acid, propyl acetate and amyl acetate, whose molecules have a similar shape, cause different brain cell activity.

Recently, a young British biophysicist, Luca Turne, put forward a very different concept of the mechanism of smell perception. According to this concept, smell, since color or sound, is determined by the frequency of vibrations, and the olfactory organ is like a device that is able to register these frequencies. Turne proved that different substances with different frequencies of interatomic vibrations have a similar smell. For the experiment, hydrogen sulfide and boletus were taken with an oscillation frequency of 2500 Hz. It turned out that boletus also smell of hydrogen sulfide, despite the fact that their molecules have a different shape. A new page in the theory of smells, perhaps, will be written by the American microbiologist Linda Buck.

Essential oils

Essential oils are volatile oily liquids extracted from flowers (rose, jasmine, etc.), flower buds (cloves), fruits (anise), fruit peel (lemon, orange), leaves (mint), wood (sandalwood) and etc. Essential oils are obtained from fresh or dried essential oil plants by water vapor distillation (for example, rose, geranium, mint, and some others), by squeezing them out of the peel (citrus), by extraction with volatile solvents.

The practical application of the recommendations on the use of essential oils will significantly reduce the consumption of chemicals - expensive and not harmless. My task is to help introduce essential oils to the ancient methods of preventing and treating diseases. They heal the body and soul of a person, help to endure the hardships of modern life, especially in old age.

Aromatherapy is a wonderful, natural method of soothing many physical and mental ailments. Its main goal is to restore the balance of the body and spirit, as well as to support and stimulate the natural protective reactions of the body.

Vegetable oils

In aromatherapy, they are called carrier or carrier oils. In these oils, essential oils dissolve perfectly, which, as you know, are not used in their pure form. In addition, these oils themselves have healing properties, so for many thousands of years people have been using them externally and internally. The human body is designed in such a way that it fully absorbs the substances contained in vegetable oils that have a beneficial effect on the skin, hair and nails. Vegetable oils, along with essential oils, are an essential component in various perfumes and cosmetics. To create your own creams, massage oils.

PUMPKIN OIL. It is called in another way "pharmacy in miniature". Improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, normalizes bile secretion. Useful in the treatment of diseases of the kidneys, heart, vision, prostatitis and adenoma

Methods for using essential oils

1. INHALATIONS.

Aromas, falling on the reflexogenic points of the nose, massaging them, causing impulses projected onto certain areas of the brain, at the same time have a direct effect on the respiratory organs and eliminate congestive and inflammatory reactions.

2. INHALATION COLD.

The aroma of the oil is inhaled either directly from the bottle or after being applied to the fabric. Breathing should be even and deep. Inhalation time 3-10 minutes. It is advisable to close your eyes. The most effective inhalations using the Mahold inhaler.

Aroma substances come into contact with the entire surface of the skin. Due to the high penetrating ability, they are quickly absorbed by the skin, entering the lymphatic network, washing all organs together with the lymph. In addition to a strong effect on the skin, essential oils have an effect on the lungs, intestines, kidneys, central and peripheral nervous systems. Baths can be hot, cool, sitz, foot baths, baths for hands and feet. The right amount of essential oil is added to the filled container with water at the right temperature, which is pre-mixed with an emulsifier. Emulsifiers are substances that allow the oil to be more easily mixed with water: sea or table salt, bath foam, cream, whey, bran. The procedure time is 5-30 minutes. Increasing the time of taking an aromatic bath should be gradual.

4. COMPRESSES.

Substances in essential oils penetrate through the area of the skin, which is in direct projection to the diseased organ; get into the lymph and have anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, analgesic, antispasmodic effects. Add essential oil to the water, then immerse a cotton cloth in this water, wring it out slightly, attach it to the projection area of the diseased organ and fix it with a dry thin cloth. The procedure time is 5-40 minutes.

5. RUNNING.

The technique perfectly helps with inflammatory phenomena in the muscular, nervous, connective tissue, affecting the lymphatic system, spinal trunk, respiratory and blood exchange systems. Add the required amount of essential oil to 10 g of massage oil, apply to the sore spot and rub with strong vigorous movements.

It is one of the most active methods of influencing the body. Provides rapid penetration of aromatic substances into the lymph and bloodstream, which gives the effect of a comprehensive effect on the body. In addition to a positive effect on the respiratory, circulatory, central and peripheral nervous systems, there is a healing of the liver, intestines and endocrine glands. Mix essential oil with 10 g of vegetable oil, apply to the skin. After that, a massage is performed according to the system that corresponds to the state of your health.

Internal use of essential oils

The active components of essential oils affect the digestive organs, enter the bloodstream, normalize the functioning of the cardiovascular system, and have a powerful effect on the genitourinary system and nervous tissue. For internal use of essential oil, a solvent is needed! The recommended amount of essential oil should be added to 1 tablespoon of edible vegetable oil, or to 1 teaspoon of honey or jam, dried fruit or a piece of biscuit, used as a salad dressing, mixed with mayonnaise. For burning oils, there is a capsulation technique: apply oil of the appropriate dosage to a small piece of black bread. Knead another piece of bread between your fingers so that you get a thin plate. Next, wrap the bread soaked in aroma essence in this plate and seal it tightly. Take as pills with plenty of liquid. Aromatization of tea: drop 7-10 drops of essential oil into a hermetically sealed (200 g) container, then pour tea into this container, close tightly and do not open for 3-5 days, shaking occasionally.

Properties of essential oils

ORANGE.

It has long been known as a good remedy for fever. It is antipyretic, treats urolithiasis, improves the functions of digestion, gallbladder, kidneys, is a hemostatic agent, has a beneficial effect on the skin of the face. It is used to aromatize indoor air, which significantly improves the mood and performance of people in them. It is used in aroma incense burners, added to cosmetic creams and ointments, to taste it is used as an additive to liqueurs and vodka.

GRAPEFRUIT.

It is used in the treatment of pulmonary insufficiency, arrhythmia, arthritis, hepatitis, asthenic syndromes. Treats hypertension, helps prevent atherosclerosis. Grapefruit oil is given to patients who have undergone major surgery or a debilitating illness. It whets the appetite.

Tones the autonomic nervous system, an effective remedy against vegetative-vascular dystonia. Whitens, smoothes the skin; reduces freckles and age spots, eliminates visible vascular pattern, excellent remedy for dandruff, natural hair lightener, eliminates brittle nails. Eliminates rashes of various origins, boils, lichen, warts, cracks on the palms and soles, eczema, bleeding gums. A good antiviral agent is effective for influenza, herpes, chickenpox, viral hepatitis, measles, mumps. It has antibacterial, antiseptic, bactericidal action. Relieves fever, helps to normalize body temperature Remedy for headaches, nausea, dizziness caused by spasms of cerebral vessels or caffeine overdose. Normalizes metabolism and utilization of fats, anti-obesity remedy, eliminates cellulite. Dissolves gallbladder and kidney stones. Rejuvenates the walls of blood vessels, has an anti-sclerotic effect. Prevents varicose veins and the development of hemorrhoids. Participates in cleaning the body of toxins, has an antianemic effect, activates leukocytes in the body's defense system, and normalizes the blood count. The use of this oil is incompatible with sunbathing.

MELISSA OFFICINE (LEMON MINT)

Melissa oil is one of the most effective and valuable essential oils offered by aromatherapy. Classical aromatherapy indicates the following main properties of lemon balm essential oil: tonic effect on the brain, heart, uterus, digestive tract, antispasmodic, physical and mental stimulant ("longevity patent"), choleretic, improves stomach function, carminative, diaphoretic, anthelmintic. Indications for internal use of lemon balm; migraine, indigestion, neuralgia (facial, dental, ear, head), irritability, insomnia, convulsions, epilepsy, fainting, dizziness, tinnitus, spasms (digestive, cardiac asthma), vomiting of pregnant women, intellectual impairment (memory), melancholy , painful menstruation, anemia. For external use - insect bites (wasps, etc.), repelling insects, as well as treatment of wounds, cuts, rheumatism, swollen mammary glands, bruises. Scientists have confirmed that lemon balm has antiviral properties.

Fragrances in business

Businesses were also interested in the effects of odors, discovering that workers were more productive when scented. There are examples of some companies in Japan that have successfully applied this method. They let certain scents into the air conditioning system in buildings so that everyone in their place can smell this or that smell. One building corporation even uses a computer system to distribute odors throughout its buildings. Such aromatization increases the working capacity of workers who are usually engaged in routine work.

For this purpose, the Japanese company Sumitsu organized special rest rooms if people felt the need for energy replenishment. Directors of large enterprises were advised to spray "aromatic activators" before calling employees to important meetings. The Sumitsu firm has developed more than 20 variants of phytocompositions - aromas, flowers and plants - to improve the quality of work of programmers and typists. The number of errors among programmers decreased when inhaling the smell of jasmine - 3%, lavender - by 20%, lemon - by 54%.

3. When smells can be deadly

Perfumes, dishwashing detergents, household gas, fragrances - a variety of smells surround us everywhere. Every day we breathe them in, practically without thinking about whether they are harmful, whether there are dangerous odors and how to recognize them.

Spray air fresheners are the most dangerous. They contain toxic volatile substances that easily enter the body through the lungs and even the skin. Many manufacturers also add sodium benzoate and sodium nitrite to their products. Both substances are among the strongest poisons and cause a mutation of human DNA, which provokes the development of diseases such as Parkinson's disease and cirrhosis of the liver. In addition, after regular use of an air freshener in the form of an aerosol, anemia (anemia) gradually begins to develop in a person. However, the harm of air fresheners in the form of gels is not much less, since they include a polymer gel, artificial fragrances and dyes that can cause severe allergies. American scientists conducted studies in 2008, during which they found that people who often use air fresheners in their homes get cancer by 130% more often than those who prefer natural fresheners. Modern technologies make it possible to recreate any smell in laboratory conditions. Whether it's fragrant lilac, freshly cut grass or a gourmet dessert. This is possible due to the combination of various chemicals. The composition of air fresheners includes the so-called fragrances or perfume compositions - synthetic flavors. Of course, there are also natural ones, but their use on an industrial scale would be too expensive, and the smell would not be so persistent. On the label, manufacturers usually do not report what these compounds are, thereby reserving the right to disguise any elements under such a name. However, even without perfume, air fresheners are full of different chemistry.

The composition of the sprays includes propane and butane, in large quantities these substances cause suffocation, the danger is linalool and the solvent, which are potential allergens, formaldehyde depresses the central nervous system, limonin and pinin can cause cancerous tumors. According to Rospotrebnadzor, the allowable rate for air fresheners is hazard class 3-4 according to the degree of impact on the human body, these are moderate and low-hazard substances, their inhalation poisoning possibility coefficient is up to 29. Almost all household chemicals belong to these classes.

Not always the ingredients declared on the labels correspond to the real ones. In addition, many manufacturers, in an effort to attract more consumers of their product, position their air fresheners as "destroying the smell, not masking it."

Air fresheners contain a lot of toxins that easily enter the human body, but are much more difficult to remove from it. Air fresheners irritate mucous membranes, cause headaches and nausea, provoke asthma attacks and allergies. The constant use of these funds increases the risk of cancer! The following components of the refreshing mixture contribute to the development of asthma, breathing problems, leukemia, bone diseases: benzene, petroleum distillates, formaldehyde, limonene. The negative impact of these substances has been proven by scientists. If air freshener cans say that it contains only natural ingredients, then it also contains phthalates. Phthalates are chemicals, salts and esters of phthalic acid that are widely used in industry. In cosmetics, phthalates are used as a binder (solvent and binding of other ingredients) component, as well as to provide softness, to give an oily film.

Once in the human body, phthalic acid esters are transformed, splitting them into monoesters. The next step is the oxidation of the remaining monoester alcohol. At the same time, the corresponding products excreted from the body are found in the urine. Phthalates, especially those with a short alcohol chain, can be absorbed through the skin. Twenty-four hours after skin contact with radioactive diethyl phthalate (DEP), 9% of the radioactivity was found in the urine, and after 3 days, radioactive material was found in various organs. There seems to be some relationship between phthalates metabolism and toxicity, as short chain alcohol phthalates, which are highly toxic, are in fact broken down very quickly into monoesters, and in animal experiments most of the toxic effects of phthalates have been caused by monoesters. The target organs for phthalates are the liver, kidneys and testicles. Phthalates accumulate in the human body, which negatively affects its hormonal background, as well as the functioning of the liver and kidneys. Once in the human body, diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) rebuilds fat metabolism, slowing down the breakdown and increasing the formation of fats. Such chemicals are deposited in adipose tissue and liver, which leads to disruption of various functions of our body. They have a particularly strong negative impact on the reproductive system. This is not the whole set of dangerous chemicals in air fresheners. A number of compounds are found: phenol, dichlorobenzene, camphor, naphthalene, benzyl alcohol, ethanol, pinene, etc. Each of them has a certain negative effect on our body.

However, petroleum distillates, benzene and formaldehyde, which are part of many air fresheners, can not only cause asthma and allergies, but also disrupt the entire metabolism, up to calcium absorption disorders (and bone density disorders) and even leukemia.

Aerosols - in addition to the destructive mechanical effect on the respiratory system, they also have a chemical effect. Prolonged contact with aerosols is fraught with the development of bronchial asthma. The smallest particles, passing through the respiratory tract of small caliber (bronchioles), irritate the nerve endings located in them. This, in turn, causes spasm of the smooth muscles of the bronchioles. Also, aerosols, being a foreign substance and passing through the respiratory tract, trigger an allergic reaction in them, which contributes to swelling of the bronchial wall and the production of thick, viscous sputum. All these mechanisms lead to a decrease in the airway lumen and are a key link in the formation of suffocation.

But not only this is dangerous chronic inhalation of aerosols. In view of the negligibly small size of the particles contained in it, they are also capable of exerting a chemical effect on the body. Systematic inhalation of dust rich in various metals or silicon oxide, over the years leads to diseases such as silicosis, asbestosis, lung metallosis.

As you can see, in this case, the respiratory system mainly suffers. More severe effects occur when inhaling aerosols containing suspended liquid particles. They get into the respiratory tract, penetrate into the blood vessels and spread throughout the body. In such situations, the liver and kidneys will suffer. They, being natural blood purifiers, retain all toxic and poisonous substances that have entered the bloodstream.

The liver, like any other organs, has huge reserve capacity and copes with "its work" for many years (here we are talking about long-term human contact with small doses of aerosols). However, there comes a time when the liver fails and cannot cope with the increased load. Then all foreign substances pass with the blood to the rest of the organs.

Behind the liver, as a rule, the work of the kidneys is disrupted, then the brain is damaged. Working capacity, memory decreases, fatigue increases, headaches are more often tormented. The trouble does not bypass the heart either: the rhythm breaks, blood pressure changes.

If the damaging factor is not removed, then all the pathological processes listed above become irreversible, with a deplorable outcome. Timely identification and restriction of oneself from dust and aerosols contributes to a quick recovery and restoration of the previous working capacity. headaches. The trouble does not bypass the heart either: the rhythm breaks, blood pressure changes.

4. Study

As a result of a survey conducted by me among grades 9-10 of MBOU secondary school No. 25, Khimki, questions were asked on the topic of awareness of the effect of odors on the human body.

1. Do you use aerosols? (deodorants, air fresheners)

2. Do you use natural oils?

Sometimes 4%

3. How do you think aerosols affect the body?

positive 10%

Negative 40%

Haven't thought about it 50%

4. How often do you use aerosols? (deodorants, air fresheners)

Several times a day 59%

Several times a week 23%

Rarely 10%

I do not use 8%

5. How do you think natural oils affect the human body?

· Positively 67%

Negative 4%

Haven't thought about it 29%

6.How often do you use natural oils?

Several times a day 10%

Several times a week 5%

Rarely 50%

I do not use 35%

7. Have you noticed a deterioration in your health with prolonged use of aerosols?

Do not use 10%

8. Have you noticed an improvement in well-being when using oils?

Do not use 24%

9. Are you ready to give up aerosols in exchange for natural oils?

Didn't think about it 38%

10. Are there any symptoms such as: sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion?

14% observed

Not observed 57%

Didn't pay attention 29%

11. Why don't you use aerosols?

Allergic reactions 0%

I do not consider it necessary 30%

Use 70%

12. Are you allergic to aerosols?

Didn't notice 14%

The result of the study

As a result of a survey of grades 9-10 of MBOU secondary school No. 25, I concluded that most of the respondents use aerosols several times a day, without thinking about their harmful effects on the body, but about 15% noted the presence of such symptoms as sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion. More than 50% are not ready to give up aerosols.

The study revealed the following positive results: about 65% of respondents use natural oils as medicines, aromatherapy and perfumery; another 25% of respondents noticed an improvement in well-being when using natural oils; and 30% of those diagnosed are ready to give up aerosols in exchange for natural oils. And the most interesting result is to cancel the desire of a third of those surveyed to use natural oils to improve health and quality of life.

Conclusion

Through the organs of smell, you can influence the mental and physical state of a person.

The use of essential oils has a beneficial effect on the body. Many essential oils have a healing effect on a person, improve mood and well-being.

Aerosols - in addition to the destructive mechanical effect on the respiratory system, they also have a chemical effect.

Of course, air fresheners are very common nowadays and are in great demand in stores. But people who buy these air fresheners don't realize the damage they are doing to their health. Under the most pleasant and varied aromas, many chemical compounds that are hazardous to health are hidden.

It would be naive to think that air fresheners eliminate unpleasant odors, in other words, they even mask badly, for example, if we take, for example, unpleasantly smelling substances like ammonia or hydrogen sulfide.

As mentioned above, the smell is a property of certain molecules of a certain structure that move in space. We perceive aroma when these molecules act on our olfactory receptors, and the signal is transmitted to the brain. To destroy the smell, you need to destroy its molecules, but the ingredients that make up the aerosols cannot do this. As a result, it is up to us to decide whether to spoil our health using chemical aerosols or try to at least partially switch to natural remedies, thereby supporting it at this time of overstrain and mental exhaustion.

List of used sources and literature

1. "Handbook of a chemist" v.2, L.-M.: Chemistry, 1964.

2. Belikov V.G. "Textbook on pharmaceutical chemistry" M.: Medicine, 1979.

3. Devyatkin V.V., Lyakhova Yu.M. "Chemistry for the curious, or what you don't learn in class" Yaroslavl: Academy Holding, 2000.

4. Irisova O.A. Aromatherapy. Practical guide (under the editorship of A.D. Kozhevnikova).- M.: Publishing House of Moscow State University, 2002.

5. Kim A.M. Organic chemistry. Tutorial. Novosibirsk, 2002.

6. Kozhevnikova A.D. "Emergency aromatherapy help" Aroma-Azbuka, Moscow-2006.

7. Miller Light, Miller Brian. Aromatherapy from the standpoint of Ayurveda. Per. from English - M.: Sattva, 2004.

8. Ovchinnikov Yu.A. Bioorganic chemistry, Moscow, Prosveshchenie, 1987.

9. Plemenkov V.V. Introduction to the chemistry of natural compounds, Kazan, 2001.

10. Soldatchenko S.S. Kashchenko G.F., Pidaev A.V., et al. Essential oils - the aroma of health: Ancient and modern prevention and treatment of diseases with essential oils. - Simferopol: "Tavrida", 2003.

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What happens when you inhale fragrances

When a person inhales this or that smell, the aroma seems to dissolve in the nasal mucosa, irritates the nerve endings that transmit a signal to the brain in the hypothalamus, the hippocampus. And they are responsible for:

temperature;
hunger;
thirst;
excitation;
blood sugar level;
concentration of attention;
memory;
creating images.

Thanks to this knowledge, it can be stated with confidence that a person, inhaling this or that aroma, sends a certain signal to the brain, which spreads throughout the body.

In addition, it has been established that the effect of aromas on the body is associated not only with brain stimulation. For example, essential oils that are inhaled, having dozens of biologically active components in their composition, enter through the respiratory tract, skin into the blood and lymph, have the most positive effect on health.

What smell, what is responsible for

It is believed that the aromas of ginger, verbena, sage, jasmine, juniper, tea tree will help restore strength after a hard day's work, restore efficiency and enhance mental activity. To achieve the desired effect, just a drop of the essential oil of these plants is enough.

In a period of depression or just fatigue, you can resort to the help of mandarin, lemon, orange, lavender, eucalyptus, sandalwood, chamomile or musk oils. These aromas instantly cheer up, invigorate the body and spirit - in general, they have the most beneficial effect on a person.

If there is a need for deep concentration of attention, even memory improvement, for example, during exams, reports at work, essential oils are suitable:

nutmeg;
neuroli;
rosemary;
carnations.

The smell of a rose will help to concentrate when doing work, to perform it as efficiently as possible. If it manifests itself in pregnant women, then essential oils of ginger or peppermint will help alleviate the condition. To do this, it is worth dropping a small amount of funds on a scarf and put it near the pillow.

Aromas help not only to relax, but also to treat health.

Rashes, itching, skin irritations can remove oils:

tea tree;
sage;
lavender;
juniper;
chamomile.

They eliminate inflammation, treat many skin diseases. Also, when caring for skin and hair, the smells of bergamot, ylang-ylang, lemon balm, chamomile will not be superfluous.

Scientists have found that a person during sleep also feels all the smells. This discovery makes it possible to correct restless painful sleep with the help of certain aromas. So, after conducting research on sleep, it was found that the healing smells of jasmine and rose stabilize the nervous system. In folk medicine, healers quite safely use hop cones for this purpose.

Useful aromas for the treatment of diseases

If we talk about what aromas have an impact on health, then one cannot but mention the healing properties of the smells of mint, lemon, eucalyptus, lemon balm, geranium. They are good for preventing colds and fighting viruses and microbes at the initial stage of diseases.

Spruce, ginger, iris, cedar, marjoram, thuja - will save with sore throat, bronchitis. A note on which oils to use for diseases:

For prevention and general health promotion, aromas of roses, anise, fennel, sandalwood, geranium, lavender are suitable.
With a headache, valerian, ginger, verbena, mint, marjoram and chamomile are indispensable.
With stomatitis, an orange or calendula will help out, and oregano or tea tree will do for cleansing the face.
Even with rheumatism, sciatica and osteochondrosis, odors can do a good job. To do this, it is better to resort to the help of cloves, verbena, cardamom, arborvitae, nutmeg and thyme.
Vapors of essential oil of thyme kill such pathogenic bacteria as typhoid and dysentery bacillus, Escherichia coli and staphylococcus aureus, and pine and fir are the strongest antiseptic.

How to use essential oils

It is clear that it is impossible to simply surround yourself with all these smells. Of course, you can put a pot of geranium or rose in the room, periodically inhale the aromas of lemon or tangerine, drink tea with bergamot, and so on. But in the case of other plants, their use in its pure form is difficult.

Therefore, it is better to resort to the help of essential oils - they can be bought in the cosmetic departments of stores or in any pharmacy. Essential oils are obtained by extracting a fragrant volatile substance from flowers, seeds, leaves, fruits, and wood.

Essential oils should not be applied to the skin in a pure concentrated form, should not be used by pregnant women and allergy sufferers. They are not mixed with water, usually in cosmetology cream, wax, honey, milk or transport base oils (shea, olive, sea buckthorn, jojoba, etc.) are used for these purposes.

A few drops of essential oil can be added while taking a bath, mixed with one of the base oils. Also, oil can be added to a ladle with water to give it to the heater in the bath, or to moisten brooms with it.

A couple of drops of essential oil can be added to water

It is also good to use essential oil for massage, it not only creates a pleasant atmosphere with a smell, but is also absorbed into the human body through the skin, and gives a positive effect. Essential oils are suitable for compresses, for adding to cosmetics, aroma stones, aroma lamps and aroma pendants.

Healthy smells are good for inhalation - cold and hot. To do this, add a couple of drops of oil with the necessary aroma to cold or hot water and inhale it for several minutes.

Dangerous odors

A fragrance can become dangerous to humans for two reasons. Firstly, it may be the most pleasant in itself, but for a particular person, associating with some kind of incident, an unpleasant event, etc., it may turn out to be bad. This is fraught with:

bad mood;
irritation;
headache;
pressure increase;
nausea.

Secondly, the fragrance can be dangerous if it contains toxic substances. These are essential oils:

arnica;
boldo;
mustard;
oregano;
costus;
camphor;
tansy;
almonds;
parsley;
savory;
horseradish;
rosin;
sweet clover.

Video: the impact of aromas on human confidence and health

Today I will talk about the use of fragrances for business. For myself, as an element of influence on the subconscious and as an opportunity to control the mood of other people. For the premises where your business is located: office or trading floor.

Aromatherapy, as a science, has more than one millennium. Therefore, the effect of essential oils has been studied enough. It is important not to confuse natural essential oils and aroma culture. I will talk about natural oils that affect homeostasis and change the chemical composition of the blood.

In this case, focus on the price. The price of natural essential oil is from $10 for 5 ml and more (iris, for example, costs $100 for 1 ml). Both the words 100% natural essential oil must be on the label.

The Russian scientist Pavlov argued that smells govern associative thinking. Influence of smells on the human described by ancient scientists, writers, poems. Therefore, applying smells for impact on the of people, we hit the weak spot of their psyche.

Let's start with choosing a perfume for yourself. Go to the store and put your favorite perfume on your clean skin on your wrist. Or rather, two perfumes: for the right and left hands. Various flavors. After 6-8 hours, you check: how it opened up for you, how persistent it is and what impression your friends have of it. Ask friends to rate the scent. I did an experiment. For three weeks I went to the store every day and on different shoulders (it was July) I applied each fragrance. Asked to evaluate the aroma of friends. There was one amazing discovery. Never did not match the pleasant aroma for men and women. Women have always liked one scent and men another. Therefore, first of all, when choosing a fragrance, remember who you want to like: men or women. Everything men rejected powdered and sweet fragrances.

Remember that a person depends on the aroma of another by 97%. if they don't like your fragrance, they won't want to continue communicating with you. Or they will remember it as an antipathy towards you.

Aromas - influence on the subconscious. To convince the interlocutor of your innocence, your fragrance should contain musk (possibly vegetable) and / or ambergris.

Musk, its action is due to the properties to attract the opposite sex. This smell causes instinctive desire and clouds the mind. It is impossible to describe the smell of musk, the impressions from this fragrance are too contradictory. But still, it can be noted that white musk smells of freshness, clean skin, a little sweet and soulful. Red musk is more saturated, deep, exciting and attractive, with tart notes, it is considered an evening scent.

Synthetic musk fragrances are currently used by perfumers and form the basis of many perfume compositions for men and women, with the difference that white musk is the main component of daytime fragrances, and red musk is the main component of evening fragrances.

Ambergris, enhances the element of fire, warms the heart, makes it kind and responsive. Treats nervous diseases, natural pheromone and aphrodisiac.

And now we choose perfume for office and business. It is possible to determine what problem the fragrance should solve. Perhaps you need the guest to relax and stay with you, or perhaps the clients come often and not for long.

Let's get an aroma lamp and a candle-sleeve (the one in the foil). The exposure time or aroma fumigation of the room is no more than 20 minutes. Pour water into the aroma lamp, light a candle inside the lamp and drip oil, 3-5 drops. Don't forget to check the amount of water. Remember that the aroma should not be intrusive. You can mono-aroma or a mixture. For example:

Mix 1: rosemary - 3 drops, orange - 3 drops;
Mix 2: grapefruit - 3 drops, cypress - 3 drops;
Mix 3: jasmine - 2 drops, bergamot - 4 drops.

Helps to increase confidence.

A few more examples of professional room aromatization:

The confectionery department uses the smell of caramel, which attracts the sweet tooth;
Aromas of citrus, banana, melon will push you to buy in the fruit department;
The aroma of lemon will help in the fish department;
The expensive casinos used leather and sandalwood scents;
Furniture stores smell of cedar and mastic;
Classic fragrances that have been tested for decades to increase sales - lemon, coffee, chocolate, the smell of baking, vanilla, tangerine and pine needles;
Our realtors do a good job cinnamon coffee flavor. In this case, the fragrance must be sprayed in the room in advance before the client arrives. Those realtors who make an appointment not in the office, but in a room intended for sale or hire, brew coffee and cut oranges. Always satisfied with the results, fewer rejections, and customers are more accommodating;
Essential oil grapefruit contributes to increased sales. Its peculiarity is that almost everyone likes it, its aroma tones, harmonizes, creates a holiday mood, sets up positive contact;
In boutiques with expensive clothes, it is good to use essential oils. pink And sandalwood tree;
Aroma for business from essential oils - basilica And orange works well in small markets. Aroma orange makes a person open, and the smell basilica suppresses willpower;
Essential oils are suitable for a women's clothing boutique - vanilla, basil, lemon, mint;
Suitable for beauty salons mandarin, lemon, floral aromas, coconut;
For the gift shop cinnamon, clove, mandarin;
Hotels - mango, rose.

Smells are connected to our memories and feelings, but that's not all. With the help of certain smells, we can start certain processes in our brain, and it, in turn, will give the command to the whole body to produce certain substances and hormones, thus, with the help of smells, we can change the state of our nervous system and the biochemical composition of organs . It is on this chain "smell-reaction" that the science of aromatherapy is built. In this regard, you must choose your aromatic oils very carefully, because if you choose the "wrong" smell, then it can negatively affect your body, your mood or psychological state.