The effects of lavender and peppermint odorants on tasks that require high and low concentration and physical energy

Based on its calming effects, lavender odorants can lower arousal and thereby increase performance for tasks that are concentration demanding. In contrast, peppermint is a stimulating odorant and can increase arousal, and thus performance for tasks that are energy-based. The current study examines the effects of these odorants on tasks that range from very low levels of concentration and physical energy to very high. Forty-four competitive soccer players were exposed to either lavender or peppermint odorants while performing four tasks. As hypothesized, the lavender group performed significantly better on tasks that required more concentration whereas the peppermint group performed slightly better on tasks that required energy and stamina. The findings are congruent with the Yerkes-Dodson Law of Arousal and support the position that certain odors can be effective in improving performance.