The Scent That Remembers: Why Floral Odors Can Evoke Autobiographical Memories

Olfactory stimuli have a distinctive capacity to evoke emotionally intense autobiographical memories. Unlike purely visual or verbal cues, odors may produce a strong subjective sensation of being mentally transported back to a previous event. This phenomenon has been associated with the close neuroanatomical and functional relationships between the olfactory system and brain structures involved in emotion and memory, particularly the amygdala and hippocampal formation.
This article examines the relationship between scent, autobiographical memory, and emotional experience in the context of floral-based sensory practices. Drawing on research in olfactory neuroscience, autobiographical memory, and sensory processing, as well as the author’s professional observations in floristry and supportive floral sessions, the article considers natural floral scents as potential sensory cues capable of activating personal associations and spontaneous recollections.
Particular attention is given to odor-evoked autobiographical memory, the so-called Proust phenomenon, and the importance of individual scent associations. The article does not propose floral practices as a substitute for psychotherapy, psychiatric care, or medical treatment. Instead, it suggests that natural floral odors may represent a promising area for further investigation within supportive sensory and creative practices.

Olfaction, floral scent, autobiographical memory, odor-evoked memory

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