“Rosemary, that’s for remembrance.”
These words from Shakespeare are more telling than you may suspect. Scent is a memory jolter for a very simple reason. Our nostrils connect to our limbic system, which is the part of the brain that deals with our most basic needs: hunger, sex and thirst. It is directly connected to the hypothalamus, the gland that controls so many of the body’s important functions, including: blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, stress levels, hormone balance, and, naturally, memory.
So, it is no wonder that scent is so evocative! The challenge is, of course, that it is also very personal. It may not matter if an essential oil is good for you, if you don’t like the aroma!
Certain essential oils have the reputation of assisting memory.
It has been reported that a chemical component of rosemary, 18-cineole, is a stimulant for enhanced brain performance. Our ancestor’s may have been on to this way before we even knew the chemical existed. Ancient Greeks wore rosemary garlands in their hair to help them remember lessons. It is possible that part of rosemary’s reputation comes from its ability to increase circulation and strengthen blood vessels.
Powerful Herbs
Basil is another herb which has the reputation of assisting the memory. Basil is an ancient herb, revered in India, Greece and China. Basil essential oil is very clearing, and can assist with headaches and brain fogs. It too, stimulates circulation Peppermint might also be a good addition to a blend for memory retention: it has a fresh, revitalizing scent, which helps alertness. Sage should also be included in this list for its ability to bring clarity and strengthen awareness. Incidentally, sage has traditionally been used in smudging to clear areas of negative energy and bring in clarity. Sage should not be confused with clary sage, a different plant, which is a nervous system tonic and would also be beneficial in a memory blend. Lastly, the addition of any citrus oils would be helpful to invigorate and energize the mind. Just imagine breaking the peel on a grapefruit in the morning and you will remember what a fantastic wake-up call it was (see, you are already using scent to evoke memory!).
Try these tricks and see if any work for you. The next time you are studying for an exam, or trying to remember a list of things to do, place some rosemary on a cotton ball nearby. Later, when you are trying to remember your studies or list, take out your rosemary and see if it helps!
As with any essential oil, check with your health care practitioner if you have any condition which might be affected by using essential oils.
©2013 Heather Garrod is a Certified Aromatherapist and owner of Planet Botanix at 301 Bank St in Centretown. She gives workshops on creating natural body care and has been creating natural body care for over eighteen years. The shop offers natural alternatives to commercial products and features a holistic therapy clinic.