Kyoto: A study by researchers from Kyoto University and the University of Tsukuba found that regularly inhaling the scent of roses may boost brain function and lower the risk of dementia by increasing grey matter volume in key brain regions.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the experiment involved 28 women who used rose scented oil on their clothes daily for one month, compared with a control group of 22 women not exposed to any scent. MRI scans showed a significant increase in grey matter volume among the rose group, particularly in the posterior cingulate cortex, a region linked to memory and mental associations.
The researchers said the findings provide the first evidence that scents can induce structural brain changes, adding that strengthening this region may support cognitive function and reduce dementia risk. They noted that while the mechanism remains unclear, the results could pave the way for future aromatherapy treatments and called for further studies using different scents and larger groups.