If you’re concerned about your memory getting worse as you get older, you’re not alone. However, there is a simple, even pleasant 60 second task you can do every morning that has shown to improve memory recall.
Multiple university studies have shown that certain scents can boost memory and cognition – and all it takes is a minute of your morning. It’s not a cure for dementia, but it’s a pleasant, low-risk habit that may support everyday cognition—especially when paired with social connection, exercise, good sleep and medical care. Rosemary or coffee are both good options according to the studies.
A controlled experiment at Northumbria University put 66 adults in either a rosemary scented or an unscented room. The experiment showed that those in the rosemary room performed significantly better on prospective-memory tasks (remembering to do something later).
In a later experiment, the same conditions were placed on 40 school children and again, rosemary produced medium-to-large improvements in memory.
Perhaps an easier scent to come by in the morning is coffee. Coffee has also been shown to boost memory.
Researchers at the Stevens Institute of Technology exposed students to a coffee-like ambient scent (minus the caffeine) before a short algebra test.
Students in the scented room scored higher and also expected to do better; the boost was partly driven by heightened expectations—a placebo-like effect.
To try this at home, try taking a few slow breaths over your coffee beans or grinds before brewing.
You can also keep a small sprig of rosemary on the table and inhale gently for 30 to 60 seconds.
Rotate scents so the routine stays enjoyable.
It’s important to note that a 60-second sniff of rosemary or coffee won’t replace healthy living or clinical care. However, evidence does show it can sharpen attention or memory. As part of a broader routine, it’s an easy way to start the day with your brain switched on.
