اشكان كياني

In recent decades, increasing attention has been directed toward the role of sensory perception in the design an‎d experience of urban an‎d natural environments. Among the various senses, olfaction—despite its strong influence on memory an‎d emotion—has received comparatively limited consideration in lan‎dscape design processes. This study seeks to investigate the effects of plant-based scents on neurophysiological indicators associated with relaxation an‎d concentration, employing electroencephalography (EEG) to establish a neurobiological foundation for multisensory lan‎dscape design. Five natural aromas—lavender, geranium, rosemary, peppermint, an‎d tea tree—were administered to participants under controlled conditions, while their brain activity was recorded using a MindWave Mobile EEG device. The collected data were analyzed through power spectral analysis, focusing on changes in alpha an‎d beta frequency ban‎ds. The findings revealed that certain scents, such as lavender an‎d geranium, produced significant increases in alpha an‎d theta power, indicative of enhanced relaxation an‎d attentional focus; whereas aromas like peppermint led to increased beta power, reflecting heightened mental arousal. These patterns highlight essential implications for the design of urban spaces an‎d lan‎dscapes inspired by the Persian garden, including the incorporation of olfactory pathways, sequential aromatic experiences, an‎d the strategic integration of fragrant species within areas designated for rest an‎d contemplation. Accordingly, this research contributes to bridging neuroscience an‎d lan‎dscape architecture, advancing a more scientifically grounded approach to multisensory environmental experience.

آروماتراپي , روايح گياهي , طراحي منظر , باغ ايراني , EEG

Aromatherapy , Botanical aromas , landscape design , Persian garden , EEG

Ashkan Kiani

Dr Mahdi Khakzand & Dr Mahshid Ghorbanian