A woman with irregular menstruation, weakness, and a soft voice came to my morning clinic. As soon as she entered the examination room, a strong scent filled the air, almost overwhelming. The patient had a fine, wiry pulse and a pale tongue with white coating. Upon questioning, I learned that she worked at a perfume counter. I advised her, “The first thing you need to do to improve your health is to use less or no fragrance.” Here's why in more detail.
Perfumes mainly consist of alcohol and fragrances, which can be divided into natural and synthetic fragrances based on their origin. Natural fragrances refer to the aromatic parts of plants or animals used directly or processed without changing their original components.
Many natural fragrances found in nature also serve as aromatic traditional Chinese medicines (TCM). According to TCM, strongly fragrant substances should not be used by those with insufficient yin and blood. They can exacerbate heat and dryness in individuals with excessive heat and fluid loss, as noted by Ye Tianshi, who said, “In cases of dried-up blood and fluids, strong fragrances are strictly prohibited.” Additionally, those slightly deficient in vital energy should use them cautiously, and those with fatigue and deficiency should avoid them. Ye Tianshi mentioned, “Strong fragrances can deplete vital energy,” and “those with a weak constitution cannot rely solely on pungent fragrances.” The aforementioned patient's deficiency in qi and blood may well be related to her prolonged exposure to fragrances. Furthermore, people with sensitive constitutions, especially those allergic to pollen and grasses, must carefully select or avoid contact with natural fragrances to prevent allergic reactions or exacerbation of asthma, potentially endangering their lives.
When choosing natural fragrances, one should consider individual health conditions and the characteristics of aromatic herbs, such as their four natures and five flavors and meridian tropism. It is best to use them under the guidance of a professional physician. It's particularly important to use aromatic herbs sparingly rather than heavily, and not for extended periods, as overuse can lead to depletion of yin, consumption of body fluids, damage to blood, and promotion of fire.
Synthetic fragrances are created through chemical or biological synthesis to mimic natural fragrances using various raw materials. China permits the use of over a thousand synthetic fragrances, which are generally considered safe when used within certain dosage limits. However, excessive use can cause discomfort or harm to human health.
It's worth noting that many low-quality perfumes on the market are made from chemical fragrances and industrial alcohol. For example, some substandard car perfumes release aromatic benzene compounds along with the alcohol in enclosed car spaces, irritating the respiratory system of drivers and passengers, causing symptoms like coughing, dizziness, and vomiting. Some low-quality perfumes contain phthalates, which can affect male sperm development, reducing sperm vitality or even causing death.
Fragrances are widely used in our daily lives, permeating clothing, food, shelter, and transportation. Besides perfumes, fragrances are present in commercially available foods and beverages, spices like bay leaves and cinnamon used in cooking, daily hygiene products like soaps, toothpaste, facial cleansers, shampoos, skincare products, as well as incense, deodorants, air fresheners, and cigarettes. Proper use of fragrances can uplift the mood and enhance our quality of life. However, excessive or overly stimulating fragrances can be pathogenic, causing discomfort or posing potential health risks. Therefore, it's essential to choose and use them appropriately.