The Science Behind
Every Scent

Olfactory Science lies at the scientific core of A&S.

Before a scent is consciously recognized, volatile molecules have already activated olfactory receptors and initiated signals across neural pathways associated with emotion, memory, stress and physiological regulation.

For A&S, scent is more than a sensory experience. It is a biological signal—connecting our surroundings with the brain and body, and influencing how we perceive, respond and adapt.

Through Olfactory Science, A&S explores how scent may support emotional balance, physiological resilience and Homeostasis.

A scientist exploring a schematic human profile, linking scent with biological science

Olfactory Science

From Inhalation to Systemic Responses

Odour molecules activate the olfactory system and are processed through cortical, limbic and hypothalamic networks. These signals engage neuroendocrine, autonomic and neuromodulatory pathways, collectively influencing immune, metabolic, endocrine and neurobehavioral responses.

Illustration of inhaled odour molecules reaching the olfactory region above the nasal cavity
  1. Odour Molecules
  2. Olfactory Epithelium
  3. Olfactory Bulb
  4. Primary Olfactory Cortex

Mediodorsal Thalamus Orbitofrontal Cortex

Entorhinal Cortex Hippocampus

Amygdala

Amygdala Hippocampus

Amygdala Hypothalamus

Hypothalamus Brainstem–Midbrain Networks

Neuroendocrine Pathway

HPA · HPT · HPG Axes

Cortisol · Thyroid Hormones · Sex Hormones

Autonomic Pathway

Sympathetic Regulation

Adrenal–Medullary Response

Epinephrine · Norepinephrine

Parasympathetic Regulation

Vagal Regulation

Acetylcholine · Rest and Restoration

Autonomic Balance

Neuromodulatory Pathway

Locus Coeruleus · Raphe Nuclei · VTA

Norepinephrine · Serotonin · Dopamine

Integrated Systemic Influence

Immune System

Inflammation · Defense

Metabolic System

Energy · Glucose Regulation

Endocrine System

Hormonal Balance

Neurobehavioral System

Emotion · Memory · Attention

How Olfactory Signaling Shapes Neural and Endocrine Responses

Olfactory signals can modulate neurotransmitter and neuroendocrine pathways. Through their interconnected effects, these pathways influence mood, stress, sleep, autonomic balance, metabolism, immunity and skin function—supporting homeostasis and resilience.

Section of the brain highlighting the hypothalamic region

Hypothalamus

Integrative Hub

  • Integrates sensory, emotional and cognitive inputs
  • Coordinates neurochemical, endocrine and autonomic outputs
  • Supports systemic homeostasis and adaptive responses
Neuromodulatory
Brain Nuclei
Neurosecretory
Neurons
Autonomic
Control Centers
Local Hypothalamic
Circuits

Neurotransmitter System

Serotonin
(5-HT)
Dopamine
(DA)
Noradrenaline
(NE)
Acetylcholine
(ACh)
GABA /
Glutamate

Mood · Reward · Motivation · Arousal · Attention · Cognition · Stress Resilience

Neuroendocrine System

CRH

ACTH

Adrenal Cortex

TRH

TSH

Thyroid Gland

GnRH

LH/FSH

Gonads

GHRH / Somatostatin

GH

Growth & Metabolic Targets

Dopamine

Prolactin

Reproductive & Metabolic Targets

Oxytocin

Multiple Peripheral Targets

Vasopressin (ADH)

Kidney & Vascular Targets

Hormonal Balance · Stress Response · Growth · Reproduction · Fluid Balance · Metabolism

Autonomic Nervous System

Sympathetic Activation · Parasympathetic Recovery

Organ Function · Inflammation · Vascular Tone · Sweating

Physiological & Behavioral Outcomes

Emotion · Stress Regulation · Sleep · Immune Function
Performance & Recovery · Cognition · Motivation · Homeostasis · Behavior

Skin & Peripheral Effects

Brain-Skin Axis

Barrier Function · Inflammation · Sebum Production
Hydration · Microbiome Balance · Wound Healing