Scented Memories: How Fragrances Evoke Nostalgia

We all know the feeling; of smelling a familiar scent and getting transported to a long-forgotten time and place in a matter of seconds. Fragrances have an impressive ability to evoke memories and emotions from the past but what is it about fragrances that enable this to occur? Keep on reading to learn about how fragrances evoke nostalgia:

The Limbic System

To get a better understanding of how scents affect the brain, learning about the role of the limbic system can aid immensely. In short, the brain’s limbic system is responsible for processing emotions and memories; when we come across a familiar scent, the limbic system is automatically stimulated. Familiar fragrances can bypass the rational part of the brain, ultimately triggering a fountain of emotions and memories that our limbic system associates with that particular scent.

The Link

But how exactly are specific scents so strongly linked to memories? The olfactory bulb plays an important role in processing scents and is also closely linked with the part of the brain that controls emotion and memory formation. Due to this link, certain smells are strongly linked with memories and experiences.

Whether you experience the scent of a perfume worn by an old friend or the smell of a comfort meal from childhood, fragrances have an exceptional ability to connect us to moments in our past like no other sensory experience.

Here at KDJ, we specialise in recreating inspired scents of popular discontinued fragrances, allowing you to enjoy your favourite perfumes forever without the worry of discontinuation. Shop our carefully curated collection of affordable designer-inspired fragrances today and indulge in your favourite memories with each spray.