Olfactory Bulb

The olfactory bulb assists with the sense of smell. It can be found in the sinus cavity. As a matter of fact, this is where it does the job required for you to enjoy aromas. However, there may be times you wish you didn't have it when the odors are not so good. [caption id="attachment_6009" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Operates sense of smell[/caption]

Olfactory Bulb

In the sinus cavity above the mouth I reside Away up under the ancient serpent brain I hide Back out of harm’s way I sit As I monitor each breath that passes   The primitive, oft called the serpent brain Talks to the three modern ones layered above Silently we monitor, but utter not a word As we work to keep you alive   Also, the air you breathe is filled with little things Tiny messengers that cannot be seen Pheromones of love and sex Also, smells of food and smoke Warnings of dangers that threaten   Hard-wired into the brain along with The sweat glands, testicles and gonads That can cause hormones to run wild And the lone wolf howls from miles away   However, in the modern world we learn to ignore Exhaust fumes, drying paint and plastics We cover much with perfume Knowing if you stop breathing you die   We over power our senses Too many smells and we get confused And don’t know what to send or what it sent Too many smells and sensations   Some four thousand chemicals in cigarette smoke Must satisfy some long-forgotten purpose Not my place to know what or why I only send messages loud and clear   When the lungs hack and cough Long ago you disregarded my message to stop   You must decide what to fear and what to avoid Of the things that waft through the air  

Please read: The Scented Ape, D. Michael Studdart