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Gynecomastia linked to lavender and tea tree oil |
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Friday, 11 May 2007 |
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A new study claims that gynecomastia may be caused by use of lavender and tea tre oils, brought about by an imbalance in estrogen and androgen pathway signalling.
The study, conducted by medical researchers from the University of Colorado, follows treatment of three prepubescent boys aged beteen 4 and 10 who had developed gynecomastia, or male breasts. All three boys had been using lavender and tea tree oils in topical applications for unconnected conditions. When use of these oils was discontinued, the gynecomastia resolved itself and the condition disappeared.
The researchers tested both oils on breast cancer cell lines in order to determine their interaction with the estrogen and androgen signalling pathways. Both oils were found to modulate the expression of estrogen regulated genes and both posessed in vitro antiandrogenic activity. The researchers pointed out that little is known about the effect of these oils on adult males, but said that an inquiry would be warranted in all adult males presenting to doctors with either gynecomastia or decreased libido.
A separate report indicated that up to 60% of males suffer from gynecomastia, although for many, this is a symptom of being overweight, rather than a medical condition requiring treatment. However, the increase in prevalence of the condition has been noted by plastic surgeons who have seen a surge in demand for male breast reduction procedures. Some scientists speculate that the condition could be aggravated by the presence of female hormones from the contraceptive pill making their way into the water supply.
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