NE Valley Times

The nose is a contributing factor to an individual's attractiveness and can even play a role in someone's sex life.

While the nose is known as an organ in the respiratory system that allows air to enter in and out of the body, it also works to filter air before allowing it into the system, which gives you a sense of smell.

The human nose is more powerful than just providing basic functions, and as February marks the month of love, it's only fitting to highlight the importance of the human nose when navigating your love life.

“It’s amazing how many of our body functions are directed toward sexual activity and reproduction,” Dr. Michael Benninger -- an ear, nose and throat specialist -- told Cleveland Clinic.

The 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. And the loss of sense of smell correlates with decreased sexual drive.

“Your nose is the first organ in your upper respiratory system and one of the main reasons you both survive and thrive,” Benninger said, according to Cleveland Clinic.

The olfactory system triggers memory, and the nose plays a critical role when paired with the olfactory system in our perception of sex.

Another interesting and widely debated area is the impact of pheromones. Pheromones are very important to reproduction in animals, as well as human sexuality and stimulation.

“In humans, the VNO (vomeronasal organ) is largely vestigial or nonfunctional, acting as an old remnant like your appendix," Benninger said, according to Cleveland Clinic. "But some researchers believe that it still plays a role in pheromone and other chemical communication."

The nose also goes hand-in-hand with your sinuses. By assisting in the control of the nitrogen oxide in the body and lungs, the nose also helps with the immune system's function.

“When it comes to your nose, there’s a lot of amazing information to think about,” Benninger told Cleveland Clinic. “But next time you look in a mirror, you may want to consider a new respect for the incredible -- and only one -- you’ve got.”

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