The Power of Scent:
How Ecomist Is Elevating Wellbeing in Aged Care

Can fragrance do more than just mask odours?

In a recent trial within an aged care facility, Damar brand Ecomist explored how targeted scenting could support one of the sector’s most pressing challenges: helping residents maintain a healthy weight.

Scent as a Sensory Intervention

Many aged care residents experience a decline in appetite as part of the ageing process. With monthly weight checks and a duty of care to maintain resident health, the facility partnered with Ecomist to test the impact of vanilla caramel fragrance in communal dining areas.

Initial trials are underway to gather data, and if successful broader implementation is on the cards - because when eating becomes more enjoyable, outcomes change.

Backed by Science, Refined by Experience

This isn’t Ecomist’s first foray into mood and appetite stimulation. Years ago, the company introduced mood-enhancing fragrance blends - but now, with access to a new range of scientifically studied scent formulations from France, the possibilities are expanding.

From calming lavender-based scents in schools and care facilities to “Wisdom Zen,” a signature blend designed to promote focus and harmony in high-stress work environments, Ecomist is reshaping how we think about fragrance - not as an afterthought, but as a functional layer of wellness.

A Global Supply Chain with a Local Touch

Ecomist works in close partnership with Innovaction, a French fragrance supplier blending scents tailored to Ecomist’s specific goals - whether that’s odour control (around 90% of the business), insect control, or mood enhancement. While not conducting in-house R&D, Ecomist secures exclusive use rights on select blends, ensuring their customers access proprietary solutions backed by science.

For their direct consumers, they’ve also introduced oil diffusers and alternative fragrance delivery systems - bringing the same quality into homes that’s trusted in schools, offices, and care facilities across New Zealand and Australia.

What's Next?

Beyond scent, Ecomist is innovating across the hygiene and pest control category - from disposable pod soap dispensers to insect control solutions for fruit flies. But fragrance remains their most exciting frontier.

With the market now more open to fragrancing as a tool - not just for ambience, but for wellbeing - Ecomist is leading the charge.