Lavender Oil & Male Hormones

Oil from lavender can cause a surprising side effect in young males.

Lavender oil is typically extracted from lavender flowers through steam distillation, and has been used as a type of aromatherapy for centuries. Its healing properties are used for pain relief, removal of nervous tension, and treatment of respiratory ailments. During the many years the oil has been used, though, an odd side effect has been reported in young males.

The Effect

The New England Journal of Medicine reports that a rare condition in young males known as prepubertal gynecomastia is caused by continued use of products containing lavender oil. Female and male hormones are affected, with the oil blocking androgen, the male hormone that inhibits breast tissue growth, and mimicking estrogen, the female hormone that stimulates the growth of breasts.

Forms

Lavender oil is found in a variety of body products, including lotions, shampoos, soaps and hair gels. The pure form is also sold over the counter at many health food stores.

The Solution

Although the breast growth in males is quite disturbing, it's easily countered. Once application of lavender oil has ceased, the hormones become balanced again, and the breast area returns to normal.

References

• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Lavender and Tea Tree Oils May Cause Breast Growth in Boys
• Australian Broadcasting Corporation; Lavender makes boys grow 'man boobs'; Gene Emery; February 2007
• Organic Facts: Health Benefits of Lavender Essential Oil