Gateway Reporter

Instead of going online and exploring various dating sites or apps to seek someone who is visually attractive, you might try going out and giving everyone a good sniff.

Some people think it’s the eyes that trigger a sexual connection. But using your nose could be a better option.  According to Cleveland Clinic, which issued a report titled “Surprising Facts About Your Nose,” your sense of smell can actually help you find a mate.

Dr. Michael Benninger, an ear, nose and throat specialist, explained how the olfactory system, the bodily structures that serve your sense of smell, can trigger attraction and stimulation.

“Not only does your olfactory system trigger memory, but your nose plays a critical role when paired with your olfactory system in your perception of sex,” Benninger said, according to the Cleveland Clinic. “That characteristic smell of a person’s perfume, cologne or the scent of their shampoo or soap is important to sexual arousal. The smell of human perspiration also has a direct effect on sexual receptors in the brain.”

On the flip side, a loss of the ability to smell is associated with decreased sexual drive.

The impact of pheromones when it comes to human sexuality and stimulation is debatable, Benninger said, but it can’t be omitted. A pheromone is a secreted or excreted chemical factor that triggers a social response in members of the same species.

“These are very important to reproduction in animals, as well as on human sexuality and stimulation,” Benninger told Cleveland Clinic.

The vomeronasal organ (VNO) is located at the base of the nasal septum, or the roof of the mouth, and delivers a sixth sense that plays a role in pheromone and other chemical communication, Benninger said.

All of these factors play a role in human sexuality and stimulation. So instead of trying to find a potential mate with your eyes, don't forget to use your nose as well.

To make sure your nose is functioning properly, take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz.