London: Women who wear too much perfume may be suffering from depression according to a new research which shows that women suffering from depression tend to lose their sense of smell.

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have discovered a link between depression and the loss of a sense of smell.

They showed that those who are depressed lose sensitivity in their olfactory glands at the same time and thus unwittingly splash too much scent about.

The research could lead to the development of a ‘smell test’ to help diagnose depression. Researchers found that in cases of various ulcerous skin diseases, a particle known as an ‘autoantibody’ attacked the immune system, making the patient feel low, and affecting their sense of smell.

It is the first time that depression has been linked to smell. The report published in the journal Arthritis and Rheumatism also suggests that aromatherapy could be a powerful weapon against depression, and actually helps patients regain their sense of smell.

“People who are depressed seem to respond well to aromatherapy. Certain smells seem to help them overcome the effects of the biological factors,’’ study leader, Professor Yehuda Shoenfeld said.

Source : Agencies