USING YOUR SNIFFERBy: Elizabeth, Rashabh,

Andrea and Jernay

Olfaction • The action of smelling; the sense

of smell

Process of smelling• We inhale little molecules of what we

smell.• Olfactory receptor cells are activated by

inhaled molecules, and they send electrical signals to the brain.

• Signals are relayed via converged axons.

• Signals are then transmitted to higher regions of the brain for interpretation.

Olfactory Anatomy

Anosmic / Hyposmia • Loss of smell or decreased ability

to smell

Nasal cavity • Either of the two cavities lying

between the floor of the cranium and the roof of the mouth and extending from the face to the pharynx

Aromatherapy • The use of aromatic plant extracts

and essential oils in massage or baths.

Smell affecting Memories and Emotions

• There’s a connection between the smelling centers and centers that are associated with memory and emotion.

• So, certain odors have the ability to help you recall events and emotions.

Pheromones• They are chemical substances

produced and released into the environment by an animal or insect, they affect the behavior of others of its species.

TYPES OF PHEROMONES

Tee hee

Releasers• Cause immediate responses and

are usually linked to sexual attraction

Primers• Their responses are slower. They

influence development or reproduction physiology, such as menstrual cycles, puberty and success/failure in pregnancy.

Signalers• Provide information by giving out

genetic odor prints.

Modulators• Alter and Synchronize body

functions, usually found in sweat. They could also affect the menstrual cycle.