Smell
Hyposmia or Anosmia
Olfactory therapy has been used as a retraining treatment for the full or partial loss of smell (hyposmia or anosmia) during a viral infection (American Academy of Otolaryngology, 2021). This is particularly important in the landscape of COVID-19, a disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 (World Health Organization, 2021). Current and recovered patients of the illness have lost their taste and smell as lingering symptoms, which can persist from three to six months after their initial diagnosis (World Health Organization, 2021).
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is used for those who use smells to create ambience in environments of self-care, which can promote benefits for well-being and individuals with anxiety, depression, and insomnia (Hoosen, 2018). Research has shown that the power of smell and soothing scents can brighten mood and provide stress relief in the immediate setting that may be filled with negative or over-stimulating triggers (Hoosen, 2018).
Smell Retraining Therapy
In smell retraining therapy, the repeated presentations of various smells of the environment are utilized to stimulate the olfactory system in re-establishing the memory of the particular smells (American Academy of Otolaryngology, 2021). According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology (2021), the most common fragrances can include: rose (floral), lemon (fruity), cloves (spicy), and eucalyptus (resinous). The recommended exposure of these smells is between 10 to 20 seconds, two to three times a day, and for at least 12 weeks (3 months), either in ordered sequence or in alternation (American Academy of Otolaryngology, 2021). The recognition of these fragrances can be enhanced through consultation with a medical professional, who can prescribe steroids or rinses as a co-treatment to the therapy, and issues of inflammation of the nasal region (American Academy of Otolaryngology, 2021).
Aromatherapy
Likewise, strong smells of natural and artificial items can be used to create a relaxing environment of mediation and self-care, which are not limited to candles, perfumes, incense, herbs, and essential oils (Severa, 2019). A person interested in aromatherapy focuses on their inhalation and exhalation of these fragrances to promote decreased stress of the body and mind (Severa, 2019). It is important to also learn about the ingredients of these sources to yield the best results, such as memories associated with the smells, and integrate the practice as a ritual to daily living, such as a part of a skincare routine before and after sleep (Hoosen, 2018). Please ensure the safe use of these products by reading instructions on the packaging of these items.
Additional Resources
As smell retraining therapy and aromatherapy focus on the nasal care of the person, further coping strategies and social support help individuals engage in these exercises as a unified group and address concerns beyond the scope of smell. Below is a selection of medical and social services that specialize in nasal therapies as a part of comprehensive care in Ontario.
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A national organization that supports recovered patients of COVID-19 and their long-term effects.
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Mental health services in the Province of Ontario for particular populations, specifically the general public, young people, and Indigenous peoples.
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A service that utilizes essential oils in massage therapy practices.