Date Presented

Summer 6-2011

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Bianca Sumutka

Second Advisor

Dr. Keith Corodimas

Third Advisor

Dr. Kate Gray

Abstract

Recent research suggests that essential oils of a certain quality can enhance memory consolidation and cognitive performance. The present study examined whether the essential oils rosemary and peppermint were powerful enough to significantly improve short-term memory in recall and recognition tasks. Participants were in a room with a device that diffused a scent or water (no scent) for ten minutes prior to their entry. The participants viewed word lists and were later tested for accuracy in terms of recall and recognition. Results from a one-way analyses of variance demonstrated that peppermint and rosemary did not significantly improve short-term memory or mood. Stipulations showed marginally significant and significant results in post-hoc analyses.

Share

COinS