Of our 5 senses, smell is the strongest trigger for memory.

Memory is strongly linked to the sense of smell. Have you ever smelled something and immediately your mind took you back to a specific place & time? Smell roses, and think of your Grandma. Smell cinnamon and think of your childhood kitchen. Smell Patchouli and thinking of the 70's.

There have been numerous studies done on the effects of inhaling essential oils on memory and focus. The benefits are clear. Whether you are studying, tired, confused, hormonal or suffering from Dementia and Alzheimers. We all need a little natural help to keep our minds sharp.

In one study, Rosemary & Lemon EO's were diffused in the air to help patients with Alzheimer's improve their cognitive function.  Study from 2010 . Rosemary & Lemon were used as they activate the sympathetic nervous system to strengthen concentration and memory. The study also used Lavender & Orange oils in the evening to aid in relaxation and calming the parasympathetic nervous system.

In fact there are more studies on Rosemary Essential Oil and it's beneficial effects on both cognitive function and speed & accuracy functions.

It's no surprise that ALL THE OILS FOR MEMORY ARE DERIVED FROM EDIBLE SOURCES. Food is a huge memory trigger. Another similarity is that these are energizing oils. So by breathing in energizing oils helps clear the fog from your mind.

Here Are 3 Of The Best Essential Oils For Memory:

1. Rosemary - The beautiful, herbaceous aroma of Rosemary makes it one of the most well known of essential oils.  Rosemary is also the most studied essential oil for effects on memory. It's proven study after study that simply by inhaling Rosemary, your cognitive and speed & accuracy skills will improve. Rosemary and Memory Study. Rosemary contains a large amount of I,8 Cineole, a naturally occurring chemical that helps with memory as well as respiratory issues.

Try: Adding Rosemary to your diffuser with Lemon EO for mental clarity. Add Rosemary to a tissue and inhale when needed.

Do not use Rosemary if prone to seizures or if pregnant.

2.  Basil - The undeniable 'Pesto' aroma of this herbal EO is wonderful in clearing a 'fuzzy mind', perfect for use with the elderly. The properties in Basil EO are balancing to the autonomic nervous system, pain relieving, and can help with sluggishness & stress.

Try: adding a few drops basil to a carrier oil like Coconut Oil. Massage into temples to clear the brain.

3. Lemon - The tart and clean aroma of lemons is loved by The sharp, uplifting and inspiring aroma of lemon has long been used to lift spirits and energize.

One study found that the diffusion of lemon essential oil into an office environment dramatically improved mental accuracy and concentration. The research results showed that the typical mistakes were reduced by 54 percent when lemon oil was diffused into an office or work room.

Another research study in Japan published in 'Nutritional Neuroscience' reported that lemon pure essential oil improved the memory of subjects impaired with dementia.

Try: adding Lemon to Rosemary or to Peppermint for an energizing, clear thinking blend of oils for your diffuser.

5 More Essential Oils that are wonderful to use in memory & focus are:

• Peppermint
• Clove
• Grapefruit
• Frankincense
• Melissa