The Science of Scent

Do Old Books Smell Like Chocolate? Research on Recording Scents

Chocolate and coffee were common descriptions from 79 people who smelled an old-book extract. This study brings together chemical components, perception, and cultural meaning to document smells.

2026.11.03

The Science of Scent

Do Rose and Grapefruit Produce Different Short-Term Bodily Responses?

A study examined six essential oils using blood-pressure fluctuations and blood catecholamines. We interpret the different changes seen with rose, grapefruit, and other oils in light of the measurement conditions and comparisons.

2026.11.03

The Science of Scent

Does the Scent of New Tatami Develop as Mat Rush Dries?

Alongside green grass notes, some compounds evoke caramel or vanilla. This study explores mat rush odorants and the role of drying by comparing fresh rush with dried rush with and without mud treatment.

2026.11.03

The Science of Scent

Can Odorless Tears Have Chemical Effects on Other People?

A study of women’s emotional tears found lower retaliation ratios in men during a monetary game, alongside receptor responses and changes in brain activity.

2026.11.03

The Science of Scent

Do Different Bacteria Produce Body Odor in Children and Teenagers?

A study examined odors and microbes on the underarms, necks, and scalps of 30 children and teenagers. Genetic analysis and sweat cultures explored pathways that produce sour odors.

2026.11.03

The Science of Scent

Wash a Sweater After Every Wear? Wool Odor and Laundry Habits

Norwegian surveys found wool garments were used longer between washes than cotton. Interviews reveal how odor, confidence and care routines shape decisions.

2026.11.03

The Science of Scent

Do “Energizing” Scents Affect the Video-Watching Brain Differently?

With eucalyptol, EEG responses became more similar across people watching the same videos. Limonene did not produce the same result in this study of a potential measure for assessing fragrances.

2026.11.03

The Science of Scent

Do Perfumers Learn to Like Unpleasant Odors? Comparing Feelings and Words

Perfumers and flavorists used more odor-quality terms and chemical names. This study of 64 people examined pleasantness judgments separately from the language used to describe odors.

2026.11.03

The Science of Scent

Can Tension Make Your Hands Smell Like Stir-Fried Leeks?

Researchers identified sulfur compounds in skin gas collected during stressful interviews. A separate uncontrolled model-odor trial found mood-score changes.

2026.11.03

The Science of Scent

Why Wash Clothes That Could Be Worn Again? Disgust and Laundry Decisions

Swedish surveys linked disgust and environmental self-identity to washing frequency through clothing wear and load size, without establishing causation.

2026.11.03

The Science of Scent