To avoid feeling drowsy behind the wheel during long trips, take a deep breath of peppermint or cinnamon every 15 minutes.
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Peppermint Plant (Photo: nguoivienxu) |
Scientists in West Virginia, USA, have made an interesting discovery: occasionally inhaling the pleasant scents of peppermint or cinnamon can help increase alertness and reduce fatigue, anxiety, and agitation while driving. This simple method can help minimize traffic accidents as well as street altercations.
In the study, Dr. Bryan Raudenbush from Wheeling Jesuit University examined the effects of peppermint and cinnamon scents on 25 individuals, each exposed to the scent for 15 minutes at a time, for 30 seconds while simulating driving. Typically, long periods of driving can lead to road rage due to loss of composure, fatigue, and decreased energy. However, with the scent of peppermint, feelings of fatigue, anxiety, and unrest significantly decreased, while alertness noticeably increased. The scent of cinnamon had a similar effect.
Previously, Raudenbush’s team acknowledged the direct stimulating effects of peppermint and cinnamon scents on athletes and office workers. The improvements in behavior, alertness, and reduction in fatigue were quite evident.
Mỹ Linh (according to IOL)
