Fragrance – Evoke Neural Dynamics of Calmness And Working Memory Assessed Using Quantitative Electroencephalography

This research explores the neurophysiological and cognitive effects of commercial fragrances by examining their chemical composition and their influence on calmness and working memory. Despite the widespread use of fragrances in daily life, their underlying neurological impacts remain underexplored, particularly those associated with changes in electroencephalographic (EEG) signals and cognitive performance. Twenty-four healthy male participants, with a mean age of 21.75 ± 2.15 years, were selected based on defined inclusion criteria and randomly assigned to four groups: Fragrance A, Fragrance B, Fragrance C, and a placebo. EEG recordings were taken before and after fragrance exposure using the Unicorn Hybrid 8-channel EEG system, with a focus on alpha and theta wave activity across key electrodes (Fz, Pz, PO7, PO8) to assess calmness-related neural responses. In parallel, cognitive effects were evaluated using the CogniFit digital platform, which tested non-verbal and visual short-term memory performance through accuracy scores and reaction times. Fragrance compositions were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), allowing identification of key volatile compounds in each sample. Each fragrance demonstrated a unique chemical profile. Statistical analysis showed significant differences in EEG changes (mean difference = +5.34μV²/Hz, p = 0.008, Cohen’s d = 1.70) and memory score (+2.67%, p = 0.021, Cohen’s d = 1.70) across fragrance groups, specifically for Fragrance B. The findings suggest that specific chemical compounds, especially those with musky, floral, and sweet aromatic profiles, may enhance calmness and cognitive function via olfactory-neural pathways. This research contributes scientific evidence on how specific fragrance compounds influence brain activity and memory function. The findings have practical implications for the development of evidence-based aromatherapeutic products to enhance emotional regulation and cognitive performance, although the small sample size and male-only sample.