Lavender
Provence is famous for its fields of fragrant lavender, so it’s no surprise that the scent can be found in everything from soaps to sachets in French apothecaries. And for good reason: the Latin root of the plant name lavender means “to wash,” and the flowering herb (a member of the mint family) has been used to perfume baths for centuries.
Scientists say Lavender is well-researched for its therapeutic effects and it’s been found to help calm anxiety, and even ease sleep problems and depression.
Research has found that people identify the plant’s aroma as “calming,” “comforting” and “reassuring.”
Orange Blossom
Orange groves are prevalent throughout the Mediterranean, and the fragrance distilled from the trees’ white flowers is intoxicating. (The essential oil of orange blossom, also known as neroli, is used in perfume and aromatherapy.) In fact, King Louis XIV, who had a passion for perfumery, adored the scent so much that he had citrus trees planted in the gardens of Versailles.
Studies found that people associated this fresh, flowery smell with being “happy,” “carefree” and “confident.”
Camomile
The calming powers of this flowering herb are legendary. Just think of chamomile herbal tea, which is made from the dried daisy-like flower. It helps soothe indigestion, induce sleep, and reduce anxiety.
Research found that the delicate, herbaceous scent is associated with words like “calming,” “comforting” and “warm.”
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