The Science and Ritual of Aromatherapy
Have you ever caught a smell of something that instantly lifted your spirits? Or a familiar scent that brought a wave of calm or nostalgia? At JustBe Botanicals, we believe that scent isn't just something you wear, it's something you feel.
Join us as we explore the connection between scent and mood, and how you can use aromatherapy to support your emotional wellbeing every day.
Why Our Sense of Smell is So Powerful
The Connection Between Scent and Memory
Scent is the only one of our senses directly linked to the limbic system, the part of the brain that handles emotion and memory. That’s why a single aroma can transport you back to childhood, evoke a sense of safety or trigger a moment of joy.
Your Limbic System: Where Emotions and Aromas Meet
When you inhale a scent, molecules travel to your olfactory bulb, which then sends signals to the brain areas that control mood and emotion. This neurological shortcut is why scent has such an immediate emotional impact.
Why Smell Affects Mood Faster Than Sight or Sound
Unlike visual or auditory input, scent bypasses rational thought. It reaches our emotional core almost instantly, making it one of the most powerful tools for influencing how we feel.
How Different Scents Influence How You Feel
Uplifting Scents
Citrus oils like grapefruit, lime and bergamot are known to boost energy and lift your spirits. Eucalyptus can sharpen focus and ease mental fatigue.
Calming Scents
Lavender and mandarin are favourites for calming the nervous system. They're ideal for unwinding after a busy day or preparing for sleep.
Grounding Scents
Cedarwood and Patchouli, offer earthy tones that help bring balance and steadiness to an anxious or overstimulated mind.
Balancing Scents
Floral notes like geranium are harmonising, supporting both mood and hormone balance.
What is Aromatherapy and How Does It Work?
The Role of Essential Oils in Emotional Wellbeing
Aromatherapy uses concentrated plant extracts to influence mood and physiology. When used mindfully, essential oils can help manage stress, uplift your energy, or bring a sense of peace.
Inhalation vs. Topical Application
Inhalation delivers scent directly to the brain for an immediate effect, while topical use (in a carrier oil) allows for slower absorption and extended benefits.
The Science Behind Aromatherapy Blends
Combining oils creates synergistic effects. For example, our JustBe Tranquil blend combines cedarwood, lavender and geranium to ground and soothe both mind and body.
Using Scent to Support your Daily Mood
Start the Day with Energy
Begin your morning with JustBe Happy Hand & Body Wash an uplifting citrus blend or pink grapefruit and lime to awaken your senses.
Pause Midday to Reset
Use Uplifting Toner facial spritz to take a mindful break and reset your energy levels.
Wind Down in the Evening
Apply Tranquil Body Butter as part of your evening ritual or light a Pure Aromatherapy Candle to ease into rest.
Creating New Scent Memories Through Ritual
Daily use of the same scent at certain times (e.g. bedtime) can train your body to associate it with relaxation or calm. These 'scent anchors' can create lasting emotional benefits.
How JustBe Blends Support Emotional Wellbeing
Choosing the Right Blend for You
Choose based on how you want to feel, not just how you want to smell. Choosing positive emotions or intentions is the heart of JustBe.
JustBe Happy: For Positivity & Joy
A bright, citrus-based blend to uplift your spirits.
JustBe Tranquil: For Grounding & Peace
A relaxing blend of cedarwood, lavender and geranium for when you need to slow down and breathe.
JustBe Active: For Motivation & Recovery
A warming blend ideal for the gym or when you need to rest and recover.
Final Thought: You Don’t Just Wear a Scent, You Feel It
Every product at JustBe is made to support more than just your skin. It’s there to nourish your emotions, invite you to pause, and help you reconnect with yourself.
Whether you're new to aromatherapy or looking to deepen your self-care rituals, your sense of smell is a beautiful place to begin.
FAQs
Can scent really change your mood?
Yes. Scent triggers the part of your brain that handles emotions, so it can have an immediate effect on how you feel.
Which essential oils help with stress and anxiety?
Lavender, bergamot and cedarwood are known for their calming, grounding properties.
What’s the best scent to boost energy?
Citrus oils like grapefruit and lime can help invigorate and refresh you.
Can scent affect sleep quality?
Absolutely. Lavender is commonly used to support deeper, more restful sleep although be careful not to overuse (as can act as a stimulant).
How can I use scent during the day?
Try our rollerballs, body oils or toners to add mindful scent rituals to your morning, workday, workout or evening wind-down.
Ready to explore your perfect blend? Browse our JustBe Emotional Wellbeing Range and discover what scent can do for you.