EVIDENCE-BASED SMELL TRAINING
What is olfactory training?
Olfactory training, also called smell training, is a structured practice of sniffing four distinct scents twice daily. The protocol was introduced by Hummel et al. (2009) and has since been examined in multiple peer-reviewed studies.
Each scent represents a primary odor category: fruity (lemon), floral (lavender), aromatic (clove bud), resinous (eucalyptus).
The Olfactory Training Kit
Four 100% pure essential oils: lavender, lemon, clove bud, eucalyptus. A full 3-month supply at the twice-daily protocol. Assembled at Advanced Rx, a licensed pharmacy in Fort Washington, PA.
Licensed compounding pharmacy · 48 states
Made by pharmacists
Kyle Salata, PharmD and Jason Jerusik, PharmD founded The Olfactory Training Kit at Advanced Rx LLC, the compounding pharmacy they run in Fort Washington, PA. Advanced Rx is licensed in 48 states across the continental U.S. We assemble and ship every kit ourselves.
The floral oil in the original 2009 protocol was rose otto. It runs $5,000–$10,000 per kilogram, and it's one of the most frequently adulterated essential oils on the market. Even at that price, you can't be sure what's in the bottle. We substituted lavender from suppliers who provide GC/MS testing, so we can verify what's actually in each bottle of ours.
Common questions
How long does it take to work?
The original Hummel (2009) protocol used 12 weeks of twice-daily training. Longer-term studies (Konstantinidis et al. 2016) suggest some participants continue to see improvement at 6+ months. Individual experiences vary.
What does GC/MS testing verify?
Gas Chromatography / Mass Spectrometry is the industry-standard analytical method for verifying that an essential oil contains the compounds expected for that botanical species, without dilution or synthetic additives.
Do I need a prescription?
No. Olfactory training is a behavioral practice, not a prescription medication or medical device. The kit can be purchased directly.
Educational articles on olfactory training
View all-
Cheap Essential Oils and Smell Training: What Y...
Kyle Salata, PharmDEssential oil adulteration is widespread. What it means for smell training, and how GC/MS testing verifies what is actually in the bottle.
Cheap Essential Oils and Smell Training: What Y...
Kyle Salata, PharmDEssential oil adulteration is widespread. What it means for smell training, and how GC/MS testing verifies what is actually in the bottle.
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DIY Smell Training vs. a Kit: What You Should Know
Kyle Salata, PharmDCan you do smell training without a kit? Yes. Here's what to watch for on oil quality, why "therapeutic grade" means nothing, and what a kit actually gives you.
DIY Smell Training vs. a Kit: What You Should Know
Kyle Salata, PharmDCan you do smell training without a kit? Yes. Here's what to watch for on oil quality, why "therapeutic grade" means nothing, and what a kit actually gives you.
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Parosmia Explained: Why Smells Change After COV...
Kyle Salata, PharmDParosmia, when familiar smells are distorted, often follows viral illness. Research, timelines, and practical steps.
Parosmia Explained: Why Smells Change After COV...
Kyle Salata, PharmDParosmia, when familiar smells are distorted, often follows viral illness. Research, timelines, and practical steps.
