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Olfaction, pheromones and life

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 November 2013

E E Hoskison
E E Hoskison*
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Miss E E Hoskison, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, NG7 2UHUK Fax: +44 0115 9709758 E-mail: emmahoskison@hotmail.com
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Abstract

Background:

From an evolutionary standpoint, olfaction is one of the oldest senses, and one that affects all aspects of life. This review discusses the influence of olfaction and pheromones on life.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE (1966–2012), Embase (1988–2012), The Cochrane Library (1993–2013) and Ovid (1966–2012).

Results:

Olfaction plays an important role in life, from infancy through to adulthood and declining health in old age. Culture, memories and emotions, which add to life's complexity and overall enjoyment, are also influenced by olfaction.

Conclusion:

Olfaction has a chronological influence on life, affecting all aspects from the cradle to the grave; it plays a role in the quality of life as a key ingredient of human evolution, survival and enjoyment.

Keywords

SmellPheromonesLife
Type
Review Article
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 127 , Issue 12 , December 2013 , pp. 1156 - 1159
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2013 

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