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concentration and memory

Going through the daily papers, television or radio, everyone at some point will have seen an advertisement aimed at improving memory or concentration. And yet, memories jump out at us all through the day - the "improvement" needed is not about retaining information, but about being to access the memories that we have.

One of the key parts of memory is the human sense of smell. This is located in the limbic system of the brain, our most primitive and the first that develops in the womb. When you experience a smell, it's particles hit the olfactory nerves, and from there recall the imagery and other details of an experience the smell is connected with in the past. Aromatherapy can use this process in the reverse, to increase retention and recall of information.

Method

When studying or reading, keep a particular essential oil nearby - one that you are very conscious of, and most importantly, one that smells good to you! This should be a new oil/smell if possible (as familiar smells with already have their own memories attached) and should not be overdone, lest the mind get confused. The oil is dispersed in a diffuser, a candle or a tissue that you occasionally sniff. The information you are taking in becomes associated with this particular aroma.

When needing to recall the information, use the same aroma nearby, using any method appropriate to the situation. This will return you to the original time, which in turn helps your memory retrieve the data.

Of course, the key is also that you put in the hard work and remember (and understand!) the information in the first place. The blend below will provide additional help in concentration.

Method 1 - Burner, Candle or Room Spray

Blend:

• Basil (2 drops)
• Cardamon (2 drops)
• Ginger (2 drops)
• Black Pepper (2 drops)

Mix the drops of oil into a carrier oil such as grapeseed or vegetable oil. Use in a burner, candle or as a room spray to diffuse the aroma into the atmosphere of the room you are in.