Takasago International Corporation collaborated with University of Tokyo associate professor Kensuke Okada to publish a research paper in Scientific Reports on the links between stress and scent. The researchers developed a scale to measure subjective relaxation effects of certain smells.
“In modern society, there is an increasing demand for the relaxation effects of flavors and fragrances,” Takasago stated in a press release. “However, until now, there has been no established psychological scale to measure these effects directly. This research analyzed responses from individuals who experienced various odors, which resulted in developing a new psychological scale with high reliability and validity. By utilizing this scale, we aim to verify the relaxation effects of various odors and contribute to the realization of a well-being society.”
In the study, two repeated surveys were conducted among 110 participants, which revealed three-factor structure for relaxation effects: liberation (relief from stress), nostalgia (personal memories evoked by odors) and negative emotions (reduced anxiety, fatigue, etc).
Further, the study compared lemon-lime, strawberry, coffee and vanilla scents to determine their effects on the three factors. Lemon-lime received the highest scores for making participants feel instantly relaxed, while coffee and vanilla had the highest levels of nostalgia.
The researchers believe that the scale can be used in both clinical and practical settings to determine appropriate self-care practices.
“By helping people use odors effectively, we can contribute to a future wherein they can manage their emotions appropriately, thereby enhancing their well-being,” the paper concludes.
