🌿 Alzheimer’s Disease & The Olfactory Benefits Of Essential Oils
• The olfactory system (sense of smell) is one of the first brain pathways affected in Alzheimer’s.
• Olfactory neurons connect directly to the hippocampus and amygdala, regions responsible for memory, learning, and emotions.
• Impaired smell is often an early biomarker of Alzheimer’s disease progression.
📖 Reference : Woo, E., Leon, M., et al. (2023). Overnight olfactory enrichment improves memory and alters brain microstructure in older adults. Frontiers in Neuroscience. Link-
2. Olfactory Stimulation Enhances Memory and Neuroplasticity -
• Studies show that olfactory enrichment (regular exposure to essential oil aromas) can:
â—¦ Improve verbal memory performance.
â—¦ Strengthen white matter tracts (e.g., uncinate fasciculus) related to memory and emotion.
â—¦ Promote neuroplasticity in aging brains.
📖 Reference:
• Woo, E., Leon, M., et al. (2023). Frontiers in Neuroscience. Link - https://www.frontiersin.org/....../fnins....../full......
3. Essential Oils Support Cognitive Function -
• Certain essential oils contain neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory compounds that may slow neurodegeneration.
• Examples:
◦ Rosemary, sage, frankincense → linked to improved memory and cognitive function.
◦ Lavender, lemon balm → reduce agitation and support calmness in dementia patients.
📖 References :
• Ball, E. L. et al. (2020). Olfactory stimulation for people with dementia: A rapid review. BMC Geriatrics. PMC - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9243450/......
• Moss, M. et al. (2012). Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology. PMC - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3612440/......
4. Sleep, Agitation, and Behavioral Benefits -
• Alzheimer’s patients often suffer from insomnia, sundowning, and agitation.
• Olfactory essential oils like lavender have been shown to:
â—¦ Improve sleep continuity.
â—¦ Reduce nighttime agitation.
â—¦ Enhance caregiver-perceived quality of life.
📖 References :
• Ko, L.-W., Su, C.-H., et al. (2021). Essential oil aroma stimulation enhances slow-wave EEG activity and sleep quality in humans. Scientific Reports. Nature -
• Dementia sleep study using lavender: SpringerLink - https://link.springer.com/....../s42452-025-06698-8......
✅ Conclusion -
Essential oils may help in Alzheimer’s disease because :
1. They stimulate the olfactory-limbic pathway, directly linked to memory and emotions.
2. Olfactory enrichment supports neuroplasticity and memory recall.
3. Active compounds in essential oils may provide neuroprotective effects.
4. They help reduce agitation and improve sleep, addressing key Alzheimer’s symptoms.
