Why Doesn't It Smell?

One of the most common complaints, when it comes to scented candles, is that the scent is not strong enough, or doesn't smell the way it should.  Is it really the candle? Maybe, but maybe not.  Here are some thoughts on why and some very interesting things that can disrupt your sense of smell.

Been in a car accident lately?

A common cause of loss of smell is automobile accidents, even low speed crashes, says Alan Hirsch, M.D., neurological director of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago. Any impact can shift the brain within your skull, tearing delicate nerve fibers that connect your nose to your brain.

Getting enough zinc?

 Zinc, and zinc deficiencies contribute to a loss of smell.

Taking medication?

Hundreds of medications can effect your sense of smell, including those for cholesterol, blood pressure, antidepressants, allergies, and chemotherapy drugs like methotrexate, also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis

Moisture in the air?

Our sense of smell is strongest in the summer and spring, because of the higher moisture content in the air. When air is cool and dry, you will not smell scents as strongly.

Do you exercise?

Our sense of smell is higher after exercise. Researchers suspect it might be related to additional moisture in the nose.

Do you smoke?

Long term smoking can permanently damage the olfactory or  sniffing nerves in the back of your nose.

Getting older?

Did you know that our sense of smell and taste naturally declines as we age? Often the change is so gradual you barely notice it.

What did you last smell or eat?

What you last ate or smelled can temporarily overwhelm the receptors in your nose.

So, if you find yourself disappointed with that candle, remember that it may not be the candle. You might want to try again another day and see what happens!