Your Body Senses Danger Before You Do — And It Starts with Your Sense of Smell

Four distinct experiments were conducted using putrescine, ammonia, and water to study human reactions to different scents.

In one experiment, putrescine was released in a specific area, and people’s immediate response was to move away. This behavior closely resembles the fight-or-flight response commonly observed in animals.

When animals sense danger, they react in one of two ways: fight the threat or flee from it. The study found that humans react similarly, instinctively distancing themselves from perceived threats.

Humans Also Respond to Other Scents Like Sweat

Separate studies have demonstrated that sweat collected from people in fearful situations can trigger an automatic and startled response in others. This shows that certain scents can influence our emotional and physical reactions without us even realizing it.

“We often don’t understand why we are attracted or repelled by someone’s scent, and we’re usually unaware of how smells shape our emotions, preferences, and behaviors,” explain researchers Wisman and Shira.

“It’s hard to imagine a scent as frightening,” note two leading researchers. However, these scents can heighten awareness and make individuals more vigilant about their surroundings.

Humans Naturally Avoid Confrontation When Faced With Danger

When confronted with danger, people typically avoid direct confrontation, whether it’s verbal or physical. Most individuals prefer to distance themselves until they have no choice but to respond.

Different Responses: Comparing Putrescine and Pheromones

While pheromones are chemicals released by the body to attract potential mates, putrescine serves as a warning signal. “Putrescine sends a message opposite to pheromones, prompting avoidance and hostility, while many pheromones elicit attraction,” note the researchers.

Interestingly, during the study, participants were unaware that their reactions were influenced by the scent.

“People are not familiar with putrescine and do not consciously link it to fear or danger,” acknowledge Wisman and Shira.

These findings highlight the powerful role that scent plays in human behavior, often shaping our responses in ways we don’t consciously recognize.