Even with all the advances in science and technology, there are aspects of our human bodies that still intrigue and puzzle researchers. It’s a testament to the complexity of our biology that such mysteries remain.

It’s interesting to note that some individuals possess what is often referred to as a sixth sense, allowing them to predict events before they happen. Building on this idea, a recent study has unveiled that we might have the ability to sense impending death.

When a person passes away, an immediate physical transformation begins within the body. A significant part of this process is the release of a particular odor called putrescine, emanating as the body starts to decompose. Although it’s something we are not consciously aware of, the scent triggers a response—a connection deeply ingrained in us on a subconscious level.

Researchers Arnaud Wisman and Ilan Shira have delved into this phenomenon. They are from the University of Kent’s School of Psychology in the UK and Arkansas’ Tech University respectively, and they have explored how, similar to animals, humans react to certain scents as a survival mechanism.

Their findings reveal that exposure to the smell of putrescine results in both conscious and subconscious reactions. Essentially, it’s a built-in alert system prompting us to act—often to move away—much like animals do when they sense danger.

Understanding Our Responses

Wisman and Shira share, “We often don’t understand why we are attracted or repelled by someone based on their scent, nor are we mindful of the significant role smell plays in shaping our emotions and decisions.”

While some may struggle to associate a scent with fear, the reality is that certain odors make us more aware and cautious of our environment.

A good example of scent influencing human behavior is sex pheromones. These are chemical signals produced by individuals that trigger behavioral responses in others of the opposite sex, typically relating to attraction and mating.

While pheromones facilitate attraction, putrescine sends a very different message. It prompts reactions of avoidance and even hostility, marking a stark contrast to the response elicited by sexual pheromones. Interestingly, these reactions occur even though people do not consciously connect the scent with notions of death or fear.