Beneficial Effects of Fragrances in Beverages on Human Health

Foods contain proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and vitamins, among others, and are essential to human life. Beverages such as tea, coffee and liquor however are not essential to life, but are consumed in most countries around the world for mental and physical arousal, or rest and relaxation. Beverages usually contain a physiologically active component such as caffeine or ethanol, which acts mainly on neurotransmitter receptors in the brain, affects mental state, emotion and consciousness, and activates the reword system. It is thought in general that foods and beverages are appreciated for their taste, but the olfactory and somatic sensory systems are also important. The aromas in coffee, teas and liquors induce a desire to drink them. Aromas in beverages are especially important for mental relaxation.