Scent-based cognitive boost: a complex essential oil blend improves memory in a small trial

A 90-participant double-blind study found inhaling a Genius essential oil blend (patchouli, neroli, grapefruit, cardamom, frankincense, spikenard, rosemary, lemongrass) improved memory and executive-function performance in healthy adults compared with no aroma and sage oil controls, while also increasing brain metabolism during demanding tasks as measured by near-infrared spectroscopy. However, the metabolic increase did not directly explain the performance gains; participants also reported higher alertness and less fatigue. Delivery via a diffuser introduced variability in dosage, and the study assessed only acute, single-session effects. The findings suggest essential-oil aromas can offer small, safe, complementary cognitive benefits but are not a medical treatment; standardizing delivery and testing long-term effects are needed.