Why is smell so strongly linked to memory and emotion?It is not fully understood, but this is no surprise as complexities of brain activity are still far from being unravelled and understood. The brain holds far more secrets than we have discovered. What is known is that sense of smell is registered in a part of brain which was already developed in our earliest ancestors.
The limbic area of brain was well developed before man had power of speech or was able to make tools. The limbic area is concerned with all those activities vital to survival in a sometimes hostile world: sleep, hunger, thirst, memory, sexual response and, or course, smell are all affected by limbic system.
As modern man developed 'higher' senses and brain became larger to accommodate development of speech, intellect and creativity, ancient knowledge became blunted or buried deep in unconscious and limbic area of brain lost some of its importance. But that ancient knowledge is still there and needs only to be re-awakened.
Essential oils have power to re-awaken and stimulate limbic system and aromas can be used to excellent effect by aromatherapist.
They also have power to balance two hemispheres of brain. It is known that left hemisphere of brain is concerned with logic and intellect, whilst right is concerned with intuition.