Smelling lavender and rosemary may decrease effects of stress

Feeling stressed out? Sniff some lavender and rosemary, say scientists at Meikai University in Japan. A recent study indicates that the aromas of these two plants enhance free radical scavenging activity and decrease the hormone cortisol, protecting the body from oxidative stress. Previous studies of lavender and rosemary have looked at the effect of these essential oils on cognition and mood. Meikai University scientists are looking more deeply at the physiological responses that relate to lavender and rosemary’s therapeutic affects.

For more info, see PubMed