Did you know that scent affects you?

A pleasant work environment improves mood and doubles productivity.

A 2025 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health revealed the key role of smell in enhancing cognition, mood, and well-being. The study, drawing on the latest findings from neuroscience, psychology, and consumer behavior, emphasizes the use of fragrance as a proactive tool.

Fragrance can improve cognitive performance in the workplace by up to 20%.

For example, office diffusing rosemary and mint can improve cognitive performance by 20%; lavender reduces clinical anxiety by 32%; the refreshing scent of vanilla and citrus increases retail sales by 23%; and jasmine improves sleep by 25%. In a US high school trial, lemon scent improved student concentration by 18%; and the use of bergamot in Japanese elderly care reduced depression by 26%.

Furthermore, citrus scent reduced medical fatigue by 21%, personalized scents improved mood regulation by 19%, and scent enhanced immersion in VR by 34%. The study also revealed gender differences in scent responses, with women preferring floral scents and men preferring woody scents.

These insights have implications for marketing, healthcare, and everyday environments, driving innovative applications of aromatherapy in work, health, and technology, and foreshadowing future trends in scent technology.