Last week while grocery shopping, my husband and I spent some time sniffing shampoos and dish soaps. Some people, such as my spouse, are much more sensitive to artificial fragrances than others. Finding a scent free or a scent that is compatible with his nose is a challenge. 

The Effects of Aromas

Scents are natural triggers to our bodies and for some, such as my husband, certain aromas can be adverse.

Early in our marriage when we went grocery shopping, I thought he was exaggerating when he told me, “I can’t go down the soap aisle.” But he was not overstating a fact of life for himself. The smell of laundry detergents, dryer sheets, and cleaning products linger on his taste buds producing headaches. 

I have an aversion to some scents such as after shave lotion worn by teenage boys; they pour it on instead of dab it on. Though I used to enjoy the taste and smell of smoking cigarettes, now I think they stink. Other abhorrent smells include; dead and decaying deer in ditches and diesel engines idling in traffic.

Then there are those pleasant aromas; tansy on a hot summer day, lilacs in the spring, the smell that permeates the air right after it rains or just before it snows, freshly cut wood, mowed grass, and damp earth. 

Fragrances can also evoke strong memories. My grandmother used to sprinkle lilac talcum powder on her skin. Anytime I come in contact with the fresh fragrance of lilac, I am reminded of grandma’s smile, vivaciousness and sense of humor. 

Without effort, or added ingredients, people’s aroma of fear can fill an entire space. Have you ever sat in a crowded movie theater and watched a scary movie? Oh my! Where is the fresh air? Then there is the smell of people exerting themselves in a health club. 

Natural scents can also be powerful triggers for relaxation, healing and boosting energy.  For instance, the smell of chamomile or sweet orange reduces stress, while eucalyptus clears sinuses instantly. The aroma of peppermint boosts alertness and the smell of lemon increases happiness and improves concentration. 

I read an interesting verse, 2 Corinthians 2:14, that says, as a believer, I carry a special fragrance wherever I go. As a matter of fact, I have an exquisite essence, a sweet scent and an aroma that smells of life, vitality and freshness. It is a lingering aroma that attracts other believers. I do not dab myself with any kind of powder or perfume, but simply as I walk by faith in Christ, the Gospel that resides in me, is like sweet perfume.  

Why bother being a pleasant aroma? We can choose to smell like life or like death. Which do you suppose is the better fragrance? 

P.S. Thankfully, my scent is compatible with that of my husband’s sensitive nose.