Scent and Alertness
Specific odors, like peppermint, can enhance attention and alertness through olfactory pathways that connect to the brain's arousal centers. While scents can evoke a wake-up response similar to cold exposure or stress, caution is advised with stronger stimuli like ammonia, as they can cause serious damage if misused. The nervous system is remarkably adaptable, responding to a wide range of stimuli to promote focus and optimal learning.In this clip
From this podcast

Huberman Lab
How Smell, Taste & Pheromone-Like Chemicals Control You | Huberman Lab Podcast #25
Related Questions
How does peppermint improve alertness in the episode How Smell, Taste & Pheromone-Like Chemicals Control You | Huberman Lab Podcast #25 and the clip Scent and Alertness?
How do smelling salts stimulate the brain?
Are there other scents with similar effects to peppermint for improving alertness as discussed in the episode How Smell, Taste & Pheromone-Like Chemicals Control You | Huberman Lab Podcast #25 and the clip Scent and Alertness?