ANOSMIA: Loss of smell, a symptom yes but for what diseases?

Here, researchers from the Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences at the University of California reveal a powerful link between olfactory loss and inflammation in a staggering 139 conditions. Research that focuses on a little-known but overwhelming link: the essential role of our sense of smell in maintaining our physical and mental health.

Because although olfactory dysfunction is generally considered a minor inconvenience, it can in fact be an early sign of many neurological and physical illnesses. Conversely, olfactory enrichment can improve memory by “226%”, argue these Californian experts: “We now know that pleasant smells can reduce inflammation, which suggests

a mechanism by which these odors may improve brain health.”

The study focuses on methodically tracking 139 medical conditions associated with both olfactory loss and increased inflammation, with this review revealing new data on a common biological pathway linking these conditions. Olfactory loss, which often precedes diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, may indeed serve as an early indicator of disease onset, allowing for more proactive therapeutic approaches.

But this anosmia is never specific, which makes its interest as a predictive or diagnostic marker questionable.

• This review of the literature indeed leads to the observation of the complexity of this link between olfactory loss and such a wide range of disorders but also the importance of olfactory health in well-beinghealth and quality of life.
• Finally, research suggests that olfactory enrichment can alleviate inflammationthus calling for further explorations of the therapeutic use of smells and fragrances to treat a wider range of pathologies.

“It will be interesting to see if we can actually reduce the symptoms of other conditions through olfactory enrichment.”

The team is currently working on a device for dispensing such olfactory therapy, which could be promising – and non-invasive – for improving health outcomes in certain neurological conditions.

Therapeutic olfactory stimulation thus constitutes a promising avenue.