12 Scents That Can Literally Improve Your Day

Studies have found that lavender aromatherapy helps with both sleep and decreasing the stress hormone, cortisol. People in Provence (the lavender capital of the world!) must be the most relaxed people on Earth.

Studies have suggested that the aroma of roasted coffee beans stirs brain activity. No wonder coffee shops are such great places to read, study, and meet up with people!

Researchers at Osaka University found that the scent of grapefruit helps speed up metabolism and decrease cravings. Who knew the secret to healthy eating and feeling good could be hidden in a lil' grapefruit?

The fresh, minty smell of peppermint stimulates the trigeminal nerve, which affects the part of the brain that makes you more alert! Time to incorporate peppermint into every morning routine.

Some researchers believe that floral smells promote happiness and social interaction. One theory is that this happens because humans and plants co-evolved!

A team of psychologists tested the effects of smelling rosemary essential oils and found that it helps improve long-term memory — especially in terms of remembering important events!

Maybe money can buy happiness...if you smell some cinnamon first. A study at CUNY and Temple University found that smelling cinnamon made people feel "warmer" and more inclined to buy "prestigious items" that make them happy!

The pleasant smell of rain is caused by a blend of oils secreted by plants, combined with bacteria in soil. The positive associations people have with the smell of rain is speculated to be a by-product of evolution and culture; people throughout history have always thought of rain as a blessing!

Neuroscientists at the University of Queensland discovered that freshly cut grass releases a chemical that causes feelings of happiness and relaxation. (In fact, they're even using their findings to create a perfume that helps relieve stress!) Time to start volunteering to mow lawns.

Turns out it's not just eating and cooking with olive oil that's healthy — researchers have found that the aroma of olive oil helps prevent overeating, improves blood sugar response, and makes you feel more satisfied after a meal.

The woody, biting smell of ginger can make you feel a sensation of warmth and relaxation. Unsurprisingly, it's also considered an aphrodisiac!

Freshly baked bread doesn't just smell amazing — it's also linked with altruism and kindness. French researchers discovered that people were more likely to be selfless and helpful to strangers if they happened to be passing a good-smelling bakery.

Scent expert Dr. Alen Hirsch conducted a groundbreaking study that showed the scent of Gain not only causes more feelings of joy than listening to your favorite music, it also makes listening to your favorite tunes more enjoyable.