From the Guidelines
Exposure to lavender has been linked to adverse effects on male children, particularly in the form of precocious puberty and gynecomastia [ 1 ]. Prolonged use of lavender-based products, such as shampoos or soaps, containing high concentrations of lavender oil (typically exceeding 1-2% lavender oil) for extended durations (beyond 6-12 months) may increase the risk of hormonal disruption.
Key Findings
- Lavender oil's estrogenic compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, may interact with endogenous hormones, potentially leading to an imbalance in testosterone and estrogen levels [ 1 ].
- The exact dose and duration of exposure required to induce these effects are not well established, but it is recommended to limit exposure to lavender oil in male children to minimize potential risks.
- Gynecomastia and precocious puberty are potential adverse effects of lavender exposure in male children, highlighting the need for cautious use of lavender-based products in this population [ 1 ].
Important Considerations
- Concentration and duration of exposure are critical factors in determining the potential risks associated with lavender exposure in male children.
- Alternative products with lower concentrations of lavender oil or alternative ingredients may be considered to minimize potential risks.
- Monitoring for signs of hormonal disruption, such as gynecomastia or precocious puberty, is essential in male children exposed to lavender-based products [ 1 ].
From the Research
Adverse Effects of Lavender Exposure on Male Children
- There is evidence to suggest that lavender exposure may have adverse effects on male children, particularly in relation to prepubertal gynecomastia [(2,3)].
- Prepubertal gynecomastia is a rare condition characterized by the growth of breast tissue in males as a consequence of early exposure to sexual hormones 3.
- Studies have reported cases of prepubertal gynecomastia in boys who were chronically exposed to lavender [(2,3)].
- The components of lavender oil have been shown to have estrogenic and antiandrogenic properties, which may contribute to the development of prepubertal gynecomastia 2.
Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and Pubertal Changes
- Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during critical periods of development can result in delayed or advanced puberty and long-term reproductive consequences 4.
- Lavender oil has been identified as a potential EDC, and its exposure may contribute to pubertal changes in children [(2,3)].
- However, the exact mechanisms by which lavender oil affects pubertal development are not fully understood and require further research 4.
Health Benefits and Pharmacological Properties of Lavender
- Lavender oil has been shown to have various health benefits, including antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties [(5,6)].
- The bioactive components of lavender oil, such as linalool and terpinen-4-ol, have been identified as having pharmacological properties 6.
- However, the potential adverse effects of lavender exposure on male children should be considered in the context of its overall health benefits and pharmacological properties [(2,3)].