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Taking a deep sniff of lavender can reduce your fear. A study conducted by the British psychological society suggests that taking a deep sniff before watching a horror movie might reduce fear in women; however, for men it was a different outcome. Study volunteers were either given lavender capsules or a placebo, and their reaction to both horror and light-hearted, neutral movie clips was observed. Surprisingly, men who took the lavender capsule showed more symptoms of stress, such as sweaty palms. Women who took lavender had increased heart rate variations. During all of the clips, the women were more calm and relaxed. The reason for the difference in results between genders is unclear. The study does show that “aromatherapy is rooted in the idea that certain fragrant smells can stimulate the limbic system - the emotion-related parts of the brain - causing changes in the function of the body and mind.” So, next time you go for a scary movie and don’t want to scream in front of your date, take a deep sniff of lavender before stepping out.  This is not the first study to explore the relaxation effects of lavender. Last year, researchers at King’s College, London found the smell reduced anxiety in hundreds of patients awaiting dental treatment. They suggested it could be deployed in waiting rooms as an “on the spot” treatment.
(news.bbc)References: news.bbc Filed In: |
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