The Nose Knows

Here’s an anti-aging and/or health-stimulating tool you may not have thought of: your sense of smell. Alan Hirsch, MD, a neurologist and psychiatrist, has spent his career helping people overcome smell and taste disorders, and he’s got some interesting ideas about how to make yourself more healthful and energized using common smells. Here are few of the most unique.

• Good and Plenty candy plus cucumber or banana to increase libido in women. He recommends smelling the candy and one of these foods at the same time. No joke!

• Green apple, banana or peppermint: Smell these aromas to reduce food cravings (slice the apple for best results.) Alternate nostrils three times by closing one nostril with your finger, inhaling deeply, and then repeating on the other side. To help bust through weight loss plateaus, try alternating fragrances monthly.

• Lavender has been used by herbalists to help induce slep, and Hirsch recommends using the fresh or dried herb, or an essential oil to increase alpha brain waves that promote relaxation, reducing anxiety.

(Note: Hirsch suggests holding the food, flower or essential oil or other item about ½ inch away from your face and level with your lips. Effect is strongest if you inhale for three minutes, then take a break for five and repeat up to 24 times.)

While there is only preliminary scientific evidence to suggest that aromatherapy and scent-ual therapy is effective, it’s a cheap solution to try for yourself.

Read more information at my Anti-Aging blog.