Can just the aroma of freshly brewed green tea induce relaxation?
While we know that green tea is rich in theanine (an amino acid) which increases the alpha-wave production in the brain resulting in a relaxed state of mind, I also know people who report being relaxed just by the aroma of tea. One of the components of the aroma in green tea is Aoba alcohol (xylopyranosyl-(1-6) glucopyranoside). Aoba means green leaves and we suspect it eases stress and stimulates the circulation of blood. By breathing in the aroma of tea, the olfactory receptors would transport it to the brain very quickly and this could result in a sense of relaxation. However, I also know that the hard science defining the health benefits of aromas is still being developed. So here is another possible explanation. Our sense of smell is highly developed and aromas are very powerful in invoking memories, both pleasant and not so pleasant. Taking time for tea relaxes all of us and the aroma of tea is a signal that it’s tea time. By conditioning, we may start to relax just by inhaling t
