Scientists Arnaud Wisman and Ilan Shira have found that humans react to putrescine, a chemical released during decomposition, in surprisingly primal ways. When exposed to it, people tend to move away, become more alert, and show subtle signs of hostility or unease—much like animals sensing danger in the wild. What’s unnerving is that this reaction happens both consciously and unconsciously. Most people don’t recognize the smell itself or connect it with death, yet their bodies respond as if threatened.
This “death scent” appears to act as a silent alarm, sharpening our awareness and nudging us to protect ourselves. It stands in stark contrast to sex pheromones, which draw people together; putrescine seems to push us apart. Without realizing it, our noses may be warning us of mortality long before our minds catch up, reminding us how deeply survival is wired into our senses.
