Why do many people like the smell of gasoline

Secretly enjoying the aromas floating at gas stations? We can console you — you are not alone. There are a lot of people in the world who like the smell of gasoline. It is quite clear that this phenomenon could not leave scientists indifferent and they found the answer to the question why many people like the smell of gasoline.

Gasoline is a dangerous chemical compound for health and even life. But for some reason, the smell of gasoline attracts even those who are far from a dubious addiction to substance abuse? Gasoline vapors can cause serious harm to humans. A characteristic smell is given to them by benzene— a chemical compound on which fuel efficiency depends.

The smell of benzene is so strong that we can smell it in a tiny amount. In the 19th century, it was actively used by perfumers to enhance and consolidate aromas. But in the 20th century, it turned out that benzene has carcinogenic properties and it was no longer used in perfumes and lotions.

However, the secret of the attractiveness of the smell of gasoline lies not in chemical formulas, but in our heads. Scientists have found that the love of the smell of fuel is associated with childhood memories and nostalgia. It is well known that fragrances have power over our thoughts. The smell of pine needles can immerse us in memories of the pioneer camp, and apple pies - about grandmother's kitchen.

Psychologists call this the Proust phenomenon, in honor of the French writer Marcel Proust. He once wrote that the smell of cookies dipped in tea brings him back to his childhood. The olfactory bulb— the part of the brain responsible for odors, has a direct connection with the amygdala, which creates emotions. In addition, it interacts with the hippocampus, which forms memories.

That's why smells make us react to them so emotionally and return mentally to the days long gone. The smell of gasoline for many of us is associated with a trip by car to the sea or to the country. That's why we like him. However, there is another theory that attributes benzene to a mild narcotic effect similar to the effect of alcohol.

When the olfactory nerves receive a portion of benzene vapor, they force the mesolimbic system to release dopamine. This substance, called the hormone of happiness, makes our brain demand to inhale gasoline vapors again and again. This is how dependence on a harmful substance is formed. In this regard, scientists warn against inhaling gasoline vapors, which are harmful not only to internal organs, but also to the psychological state of a person.

Did you know that there are people who like the smell of the subway? By the way, it can also not be called useful for the body.