Recently the use of essential oils in perfumes for the well-being purposes has been significantly growing and blossoming into a new trend. However, using the oils for health purposes is far from being a novelty. For centuries many cultures have used them as remedies beneficial for, among the others, sexual wellness, sleep, physical performance and even immunity

But how do perfumes encourage self-expression?

Scientific evidence suggests that scents can trigger certain pathways making you feel more confident, sexy and empowered. Mainly three neuro-hormones are involved in this process:

 

1. Dopamine is responsible to inspire action, curiosity and risk-taking. The absence of this hormone can be associated with passivity and apathy.

2. Serotonin is the happiness hormone, critical to boosting the confidence. Our mood and behaviour are strongly affected by it. Respectively, the more serotonin we have, the happier we feel.

3. Oxytocin is the love or pleasure hormone, good levels of it can lead to optimism and strong self-esteem. Interestingly, in nature oxytocin supplies can be boosted by being affectionate and by having sex.

Here are some essential oils linked with activating the dopaminergic pathway, to improve self-expression with aphrodisiac properties:

Sandalwood
The main ingredient of sandalwood oil is α-santalol which has many therapeutic properties and gives it its creamy and milky scent. Traditionally, sandalwood oil has been used in the Indian Ayurvedic system for its renowned sublime aphrodisiac power.
Sandalwood can be found in: Queer Magic.

Jasmin
Jasmine, the main molecule naturally found in Jasmin oil, is proven to stimulate the dopaminergic pathway, which may positively influence your sex drive. In Ayurveda jasmine is known as the "perfume of love” and is claimed to be one of the strongest aphrodisiacs out in the world. The scent can be described as sweet and exquisitely floral.
Jasmin can be found in: Fluid Nature.

Vanilla
Due to its main active aphrodisiac molecule, vanillin, sweet vanilla is also a potential aphrodisiac and may encourage arousal. Its nostalgic profile is intensely comforting, which may help you relax and feel confident. Vanilla is light, sugary, and easy to wear.
Vanilla can be found in: Divine Nectar

Featured image: Face to Face by Willemijn Mensens 2018.

Reference
Lou H.C., Skewes J.C., Thomsen K.R., Overgaard M., Lau H.C., Mouridsen K., Roepstorff A., “Dopaminergic stimulation enhances confidence and accuracy in seeing rapidly presented words”. J Vis. 2011 Feb 23;11(2):15. DOI: 10.1167/11.2.15. PMID: 21346001.