Shakespeare famously wrote, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” While there’s truth to this — as a flower isn’t defined by its smell — it’s not uncommon for someone to panic simply because they can’t identify a scent, even though they understand the emotional impact it has on them. Sometimes, just a whiff can transport you to a place that feels like home. Understanding how scents affect our moods is crucial for harnessing their potential to enhance emotional well-being, allowing us to use specific fragrances to influence our states of mind in different situations.
“Our ability to smell plays a prominent role in forming new memories and processing emotions,” explains Mishingo Aaron, founder of Naga Earth and Naga Naturals, as we discuss the various ways aromatherapy can be integrated into daily life.
“Scents have an undeniable influence on our emotions and moods. They can transport us to distant memories, soothe our nerves, or even energise us for the day ahead.”
From the calming aroma of lavender to the invigorating scent of citrus, fragrances have the power to evoke a wide range of emotional responses.
In the world of natural scents, there are a few standout stars whose popularity is due to both their prevalence and the stories associated with them. Lavender and jasmine are well-known for their calming and soothing properties, having been shown to reduce stress, ease anxiety, and promote relaxation. Although most people first associate roses with romance, the scent of roses also has calming and anti-anxiety effects. Peppermint, with its fresh and invigorating scent, helps improve concentration, focus, and mental clarity while also alleviating fatigue and boosting alertness. Citrus scents like lemon, orange, and grapefruit are known for their uplifting and energising qualities, while eucalyptus’ fresh, cooling scent promotes focus and aids in congestion relief and clear breathing. A winter favorite, cinnamon offers a spicy, earthy scent and even has mild aphrodisiac effects.
With the hectic pace of life and the demands placed on our bodies, incorporating scents into our surroundings can be a simple way to improve quality of life. It’s with this understanding that Aaron and others in the home fragrance industry continue to innovate with time-tested practices. According to research published by Fortune Business Insights, “the global home fragrance market size was valued at USD 23.93 billion in 2023,” and is projected to grow from USD 24.73 billion in 2024 to USD 38.41 billion by 2032. From Mr. Price to Woolworths, PEP to @ Home, Louis Vuitton to Chanel and Bulgari, the magical world of scents is accessible to people at all price points. However, much like a bespoke suit or gown, nothing compares to having a scent that is uniquely yours.
Using essential oils and diffusers makes personalising your environment easy. Organic eucalyptus essential oil is commonly chosen for room diffusion and chest balms because of its medicinal properties, freshness, earthiness, and woody notes. From this base, other scents can be added to meet the desires of the alchemist. Patchouli promotes groundedness, neroli sparks inspiration, ylang-ylang reduces tension, cedarwood boosts confidence, frankincense and clary sage foster tranquility and satisfaction, and rosemary sharpens memory. The combinations are endless, and Aaron has capitalised on this reality.
Under the Naga Earth brand, Aaron launched Naga Naturals, which offers creative, organic craft workshops, such as candle-making.
“Our target audience is the general public interested in learning more about candle-making, couples seeking date-night ideas, and corporate clients focused on wellness, healthy workspaces, and team-building activities.” Naga Naturals also caters to group social events, encouraging people of all ages to explore their untapped creativity and form memorable connections. “We’ve found that candle-making offers an opportunity to share life stories and provides the magical experience of diving into one’s creativity,” says Aaron. Aaron is particularly keen to use the platform for mental health advocacy, reminding us that the candles participants take home can brighten workspaces or serve as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
Workshop participants not only receive training in the basics of candle-making, but they also create their own products from scratch.
“Our goal is not to gatekeep this knowledge,” Aaron says about their value-add service. “That’s why we sell candle-making kits, supply raw materials, and even guide people on how they can establish profitable businesses.” The workshops encourage participants to be imaginative and innovative while also providing a space to embrace the meditative nature of this age-old craft.
Shakespeare was right—though a flower’s name might change, its effect remains. By tapping into the alchemy of scents and utilising their best qualities, the magic of memories and familiarity may be as simple as recreating the unseen elements that evoke them. Therapy might be expensive, but aromatherapy doesn’t have to be.
