Section 1.1: Critique of the Study

Firstly, it's important to note that the study in question has not yet been published; it was merely announced at a conference. Without the full study, it's impossible to evaluate the dosage used, which may be significantly higher than what is typically applied in everyday scenarios. This is a frequent issue in animal and cell research.

The research focused on specific components of essential oils rather than the oils in their entirety. It examined extracts such as eucalyptol, 4-terpineol, and linalool, rather than whole essential oils. From my practical experience, using isolated fractions does not reflect typical applications.

Moreover, the study utilized cancer cell lines rather than healthy human cells. Notably, some authors involved in this new research had previously contributed to a 2007 NEJM article that also tested estrogenic activity on cancer cells. I have previously argued on my blog that cell cultures do not provide the most reliable evidence for estrogenic activity. This new article may face similar critiques due to its lack of a uterotrophic assay, which is crucial for accurate assessment. Cancer cells, especially those from breast tissue, react differently to estrogen compared to normal cells, making the findings less applicable to typical human use.

Section 1.2: The Lack of Direct Evidence

The recent uproar surrounding this topic has not originated from any confirmed cases of gynecomastia in children. The authors of the study indicate that the hormonal changes observed were “consistent with endogenous hormonal conditions that could stimulate gynecomastia in prepubescent boys.” Nonetheless, it remains a theoretical assertion, as no child has been documented to actually experience this condition due to lavender oil. While there are isolated case reports of children developing breast tissue linked to lavender oil, I remain skeptical of these claims, which I have discussed in greater detail elsewhere.

Bottom Line

Practically speaking, I do not consider lavender oil to pose a significant risk for breast swelling in young boys. Furthermore, I can affirm that it is not effective for adult women. Despite some notable reports and articles, the actual number of children experiencing gynecomastia linked to essential oils is minimal compared to those who safely use these oils.

To explore my initial post on this topic, click here.

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