The Scents of Romance

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

10 Feb 2008 08:42 AM

If you're planning something romantic for Valentine's Day (or any date night with your spouse), you can use aromatherapy to help set the mood. The right scent can help your loved one relax and enjoy the evening.

Spicy and herbal, woodsy scents can mimic human scents -- the pheromones that help make us attractive to others. Here are some scents you can try for your romantic evening!

• Anise -- you may recognize it better as the smell of licorice -- is appealing to both men and women, according to studies from the Chicago Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Institute.
• Cinnamon is a popular food flavoring AND romantic scent. Another scent that is equally appealing to men and women.
• Jasmine flower is known as the "Queen of the Night" -- that is when the flower gives off its fragrance! It is a symbol of love and passion. The scent actually increases beta waves in the brain and makes you more aware of everything around you. It heightens your senses.
• Nutmeg has a spicy scent that produces a relaxing effect. During the eighteenth century, it was a popular nightcap for the relaxing, euphoric feelings it produces.
• Orange blossom (also known as neroli) has a sweet, sophisticated scent. Mediterranean brides often wear orange blossoms on their wedding days.
• Peppermint is another scent that increases beta waves in the brain -- like jasmine. It makes your five senses seem stronger.
• Sweet scents like benzoin and vanilla are comforting, and similar to the scent of mother's milk. If you want to put your sweetheart at ease, these scents can do it.

You didn't think I'd forget that important symbol of love -- the rose! They say that the lovely Cleopatra scented the sails of her barge with rose to attract Mark Anthony.

Be creative with how you use your romantic scents. You don't have to just wear them yourself. Try a drop of your favorite essential oil on your pillow, beneath the pillowcase. The warmth of your head will make the scent grow stronger. A bouquet of actual roses and other flowers can scent the room. Scented candles set a romantic scene for your Valentine's Day.

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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