The Nose Knows, But So Does Your Skin

     From the weekend edition of the New York Times (November 8 - 9, 2014) comes a fascinating article on receptor cells for the olfactory (smelling) system of our bodies.  Smell is one of the oldest human faculties, yet research is rapidly revealing unknown data.  Scientists have discovered that odour receptors are not solely confined to the nose, but are found throughout the body.  Our skin is bristling with olfactory receptors, as are our organs.  Smelling with something other than our nose might sound odd at first, but if you think of olfactory receptors as specialized chemical detectors, then it makes a lot of sense for them to be in other places.

     Some of the interesting studies include:
1.  Skin abrasions healed 30 percent fasting in the presence of the odour of sandalwood.
2.  Olfactory receptors found inside the testes function as a kind of chemical guidance system that enables sperm cells to find their way toward an unfertilized egg.
3.  The prostate gland, when exposed to an odour found in roses and violets, appeared to prohibit the spread of cancer cells.
4.  Bathing the receptors in muscle tissue with a smell like lily of the valley promoted the regeneration of tissue by stimulating the growth of stem cells.
5.  Olfactory receptors in the human lung act as a safety switch against poisonous compounds by constricting the airways when exposed to noxious substances.

     Receptor cells are a "lock and key" systems, with an odour molecule the key to the receptor's lock.  Only certain molecules fit with certain receptors.  When the right molecule comes along and it alights on the matching receptor, it sets in motion an elaborate choreography of biochemical reactions.

    Reflecting on this scientific knowledge, one might marvel at the perception of ancient yogis.  Yogic wisdom sees the five senses as "tattvas" and assigns each sense affinity to one of the elements of the universe and a chakra.  The nose is associated with the earth element and the first chakra.

    Isn't it interesting that the muladhara chakra (root chakra) is concerned with basic human survival such as tribal connections, family, where to live, what to eat.  This elemental survival data is crucial to us even today.  Our whole bodies are constantly scanning our environment and assessing any action that might need to be taken to maintain security.  This happens largely behind the scenes, without your conscious direction.  Many people who are experiencing health issues, and things like Generalized Anxiety Disorder, may benefit from considering olfactory receptors.

   And this gives incredible weight to the practice of aromatherapy.  A skilled practitioner, utilizing the purest essential oils, may be able to find that magic match for you and help direct you toward healing.

     Another reason to avoid dismissing traditional healing modalities because they haven't received full scientific inquiry as yet.  Much of the old wisdom is now being proven valid.  A pleasant aromatherapy bath or massage has no ill side effects, is cost effective and maybe is your ticket to feeling great!