3 scents can give you an energy boost — without caffeine

Scent-ational news!

Emerging research suggests that smelling certain fragrances can provide a significant cognitive and energy lift, sans caffeine.

While caffeine remains the stimulant of choice for those seeking a little extra pep in their step, it is not without its drawbacks.

Caffeine can cause a sudden spike in blood pressure, and for those with severe hypertension, drinking two or more cups of coffee per day could double their risk of death from a heart attack or stroke, according to the American Heart Association.

Caffeine is also not recommended for pregnant women, as it travels within the bloodstream and can cross into the placenta, where it can cause fetal heart rate and metabolism to increase.

The good news is that scent therapy has been shown to be safe and effective in providing the boost we need with minimal physiological drawbacks.

Experts say three scents in particular can help invigorate and elevate.

Lemongrass

A 2018 study found that after inhaling lemongrass essential oil for five minutes, participants experienced a significant increase in cognitive function, memory, alertness and calmness.

Huffing lemongrass has also proven effective in managing anxiety, as a 2025 study reported that the scent caused significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure values, heart rate and anxiety scores among patients awaiting dental procedures.

Peppermint

A 2008 study of essential oil aromatherapy found that peppermint increased alertness and enhanced memory among participants.

It seems peppermint can pep you up — and take the edge off.

A 2023 study found that the scent of peppermint oil can reduce aggressive driving behaviors.

Compounds in peppermint oil have been shown to have positive effects on the brain in helping with depression and anxiety, which could potentially be the “root” of road rage, the authors noted.

Rosemary

A fragrant evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean, rosemary has long been hailed for its medicinal properties and stimulant qualities.

In ancient Greece, students and scholars commonly wore garlands of it on their heads during exams to boost their memory and focus.

In one study, older adults who sniffed rosemary scored significantly better on tests of prospective memory — the ability to remember to do something at the right time — compared to those in an unscented room. They were also more alert.

Another study, from 2016, found that inhaling rosemary oil positively affected human short-term memory, particularly in terms of image and numeric recall.

Participants noted that they felt more refreshed after smelling the scent, while images of their brains revealed the stimulating effects of rosemary essential oil on brain wave activity.

Rosemary is also rich in an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound called carnosic acid. Researchers believe this compound could prove therapeutic for neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Carnosic acid may have neuroprotective effects by shielding hippocampal neurons, as well as by helping the brain battle oxidative stress — both are hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.

Rosemary has been shown to stimulate not just the mind, but the hair follicles as well.

Rosemary oil has been touted as a natural way to spur hair growth, prevent premature graying and alleviate dry or itchy scalp, with an oft-cited study showing it worked as well as 2% minoxidil (the active ingredient in Rogaine).