How mint aromatherapy can help during long drives

Mint has been cultivated in many countries all over Europe, Western and Central Asia and North Africa. But did you know that the peppermint, a common ingredient in breath mints, tooth paste and mouthwash, can help you stay focused while driving?

There have been many studies conducted over the years on the positive effects of mint on concentration and mental alertness.

One of such studies comes from the University of Cincinnati. They found that a good sniff of mint or muguet (a smell similar to lily of the valley) helped test subjects concentrate. Subjects also did better on tests that required sustained concentration.

In an article by the Washington Post, Professor of Psychology for the University of Cincinnati, Joel Warm, commented on his research saying: "Not only do you get an improvement [in focus] with peppermint; you get a change in response that affects alertness in target detection."

Another research conducted by West Virginia's Wheeling Jesuit University backs Warm's findings but takes it a step further.

Dr. Bryan Raudenbush, PhD, and Associate Professor of Psychology at West Virginia's Wheeling Jesuit University carried out the research and presented their findings to the Association for Chemical Reception Sciences.

His team found out that mint as well as cinnamon odors boost motivation, performance and alertness in addition to lessening mental fatigue.

"Given the results, it is reasonable to expect that the presentation of peppermint or cinnamon odor while driving may produce a more alert and conscientious driver, and minimize the fatigue associated with prolonged driving," said Raudenbush.

Both studies have proven that mint decreases anxiety, fatigue and increased mental alertness.

Next time you find yourself feeling drowsy behind the wheel after a long drive, think about investing in a proper car scent diffuser for a safer and more focused driving experience.

But think twice before you buy a car air freshener from your local store!

In a 2007 study conducted by the National Resource Defense Council (NRDC) on different air freshener brands; they found out that 80 percent of store-bought air fresheners contained variable amounts of phthalates. Phthalates are substances that are added to plastic to make them more durable. Studies have shown that high doses of phthalates have been linked to hormonal disruption and allergies. The U.S, Canada, and the E.U have banned the use of phthalates over health conce
s.

Car air fresheners can also contain chemicals like benzene, petrochemicals and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde. These chemicals can cause you long-term health problems.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that most off-the-shelf air fresheners contain one or more of the previously listed chemicals. In addition, the EPA's Indoor Guide to Air Quality explicitly states that VOCs from air fresheners "cause eye and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, and with prolonged use can even damage the liver, kidney, and central nervous system."

Consumers need to be aware of the risks associated with cheap air fresheners and are advised to only use 100% pure essential oil based air fresheners. For long distance drivers there are several cartridge systems that plug into the car's cigarette lighter (12V socket) and disperse only 100% pure essential oils to keep you alert and invigorated.