THE POWER OF SCENT: Fragrance, Memory & Wellbeing by Dr John King

Discover how scent can transform mood, unlock memories, and even influence appetite in this fascinating and interactive presentation.

This engaging talk explores:

• The use of evocative odours and specially composed perfumes to promote relaxation and emotional wellbeing
• How certain scents can unlock powerful memories and support reminiscence therapy
• The intriguing interaction between fragrance and flavour
• The rise of gourmand fragrances and their possible effects on appetite

The session will include live fragrance demonstrations using smelling strips, along with samples for you to take away, allowing you to continue the experience at home.

About Dr John King

Dr John King is a retired doctor, scientific researcher, writer, and broadcaster with a distinguished career spanning medicine, psychology, and fragrance research.

He qualified in chemistry and later in medicine at the University of Leeds, completing postgraduate training in London. For 25 years, he served as an NHS Consultant in Psychological Medicine in the West Midlands, publishing research on anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.

As a member of Warwick University’s Olfaction Research Group, Dr King helped develop specialised fragrances designed to evoke natural environments—such as the seashore—to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. This innovative work attracted widespread interest and led to appearances on BBC Radio 4’s Medicine Now and the BBC’s Tomorrow’s World.

He currently holds an honorary research fellowship at Warwick Medical School.

Dr King is also a member of the British Society of Perfumers, with interests in both new aromatic materials and the reconstruction of historic lost perfumes. He has published numerous perfume reviews and articles.

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Host or Publisher Kensington and Chelsea Over 50s Forum