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Smell is probably one of the most underestimated senses we have. Think about it, scent has the power to bring back memories, bring joy, but also warns us of danger. For example, in case of a fire or if your food is spoiled your nose is the first indicator that there is a problem.

Have you experienced eating a certain food that doesn’t taste as good as it used to, or smelling a once strong and pungent smell that now doesn’t bother you as much? There’s a lot of talk in the news and from the CDC about people losing their sense of smell after being infected with the COVID-19 virus. But you can also lose it due to an allergy, sinus infection, head trauma, and more.

Before I continue, short obvious disclaimer I am not a doctor or a medical practitioner. Being in an industry that heavily involves my nose makes this a relevant topic to share my two cents on. Since our smell and taste buds are closely linked any variable or irritant can cause swelling in your nasal passageways leading to a loss of smell and taste.

There are three wildly popular ways of regaining your sense of smell back and they are all-natural methods.

Training Your Nose

Side note, this is the first step for all perfumers when going into perfume making. Being able to distinctly tell an ingredient from the next will help you further down the line when it comes down to balancing your fragrance and giving it a unique scent. But I digress, training your nose may be the most effective way to regain your sense of smell. Start with four strong odorous smells. I recommend starting with ground coffee, a citrus essential oil, mint essential oil and a clove of garlic. Gently sniff each scent for 20 seconds repeating this exercise three times daily for 6 weeks. Also, when using this method do your best to give your full attention to the scent for the entire 20 seconds.

Drink Ginger

I could go on and on about the health benefits of ginger, but it also can help you regain your smell. Many reports say, drinking ginger tea lowers inflammation of your nasal airways, which reduces excess mucus blocking your nasal passages resulting in loss of smell. For this, you can use powdered or raw ginger.

Saline Irrigation

I remember doing this as a kid, not fun! However, it is very helpful especially when trying to regain your sense of smell. If you lost it due to an allergy or sinus congestion, perform a saltwater wash. This helps flush out any allergens and mucus in your nose.

Here’s what you’re going to need to make a sterile saline solution (per my mother)

1. Pour 1 cup of distilled water or boiled tap water into a freshly washed container.
2. Add ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of baking soda to the water.
3. Fill an empty squeeze bottle or syringe with the above concoction.
4. Tilt your head back.
5. Squirt the solution into one nostril.
6. Let it drain out the other nostril or your mouth.
7. Repeat about 3 times a day.