- Smell of jasmine ‘as calming as valium’ — Telegraph — The sweet smell of jasmine is as good as valium at calming the nerves with none of the side effects, according to new research.Laboratory tests found the fragrance and its chemical substitute dramatically calmed mice when their cage was filled with it, causing them to cease all activity and sit quietly in a corner.–When the air was breathed in the scent molecules went from the lungs into the blood and were then transmitted to the brain. — Brain scans showed the effect on a chemical called GABA on nerve cells was enhanced by the fragrances and helped soothe, relieve anxiety and promote rest. — Professor Hanns Hatt said the results published online in the Journal of Biological Chemistry can “be seen as evidence of a scientific basis for aromatherapy”. And the same story from ScienceDaily here. Note: for anyone in benzo withdrawal illness be careful if you buy Jasmine in aromatherapy. Some of us become very sensitive to scents. I’ve had reactions to scents I never had while healthy.
- Unconscious Will Sways Actions, Desires, Say Researchers – TIME — There may be few things more fundamental to human identity than the belief that people are rational individuals whose behavior is determined by conscious choices. But recently psychologists have compiled an impressive body of research that shows how deeply our decisions and behavior are influenced by unconscious thought, and how greatly those thoughts are swayed by stimuli beyond our immediate comprehension.
- And for something different — this made me laugh wildly and hysterically. I guess it’s pretty much gone viral, but maybe you’ve not seen it. ENJOY! Missing Missy