Lavender Essential Oil and Hormonal Safety: Clarifying the Concerns
As a NAHA and AIA Certified Professional Aromatherapist, I am frequently asked about the safety concerns surrounding lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia), particularly in relation to its potential hormonal effects in adolescents. Practicing safe essential oil usage is a top priority in my holistic wellness practice, and as a mother of two teenagers, I also want the reassurance of knowing that lavender essential oil is safe to use.
To address these concerns, I gathered information from reputable sources to clarify the matter and determine whether these claims can be scientifically validated or if they lack sufficient support.
Why the Claims Lack Credibility
Limited and Unreliable Data:
The concern over lavender oil being estrogenic stems from small, isolated case reports. These studies, however, lack critical details such as the specific product formulations used, the species of lavender essential oil involved, and whether the oils used were pure or adulterated. Many personal care products also contain additional substances, including parabens and synthetic fragrances, which could have contributed to the reported cases of gynecomastia.
In vitro (test tube) studies observed lavender oil components interacting with estrogen receptors, but these studies used much higher concentrations than what would typically be applied in aromatherapy settings. In vitro studies do not necessarily translate into real-world effects, especially when appropriate dilutions and safety measures are not followed.
Lack of Consistent Evidence:
The reported cases of gynecomastia have not been replicated in larger, well-controlled clinical trials. These cases are extremely rare and fail to account for other contributing factors such as genetics, diet, environmental exposures, or the use of other products. A recent review published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) also concluded that there is no substantial evidence to support the theory that lavender oil causes hormonal imbalances. Without controlling for these variables, attributing hormonal imbalances to lavender oil alone is not scientifically valid.
Furthermore, the mode of lavender oil usage was not specified. Whether it was applied topically, inhaled, or ingested, the manner of use significantly impacts how the body processes essential oils. The absence of these details further weakens the claims.
Expert Opinions:
Robert Tisserand, a pioneer in the aromatherapy industry for decades, has consistently maintained that lavender essential oil is not estrogenic. The case reports that raised concerns are anecdotal and unsupported by larger clinical studies. Additionally, the Tisserand Institute has reaffirmed that lavender remains safe when used within appropriate guidelines.
Both NAHA and AIA emphasize that lavender oil, when used correctly, poses no significant hormonal risks. These organizations uphold the safety of lavender essential oil, particularly in adolescents.
Existing Safe Clinical Usage for Decades:
After centuries of clinical use of lavender oil in Europe and Australia, it is noteworthy that such hormonal effects have not been previously observed or linked to their usage. Additionally, physicians in France have been prescribing these oils both internally and externally for many years without reporting any related issues. It is highly improbable that they would have missed cases of gynecomastia in prepubescent boys. This long-standing usage suggests that lavender oil is considered safe when used under proper medical supervision, further weakening claims of hormonal disruption
Why Lavender Essential Oil is Beneficial for Adolescents
Calming and Emotional Support: Adolescents often experience heightened stress and anxiety, especially during transitional periods like puberty. Lavender oil’s renowned calming effects can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Skin Care: Many adolescents face hormonal skin issues such as acne. Lavender oil’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it a valuable ingredient for gentle skin care.
Safe Topical Use: When diluted properly, lavender oil is safe for topical use and is unlikely to cause adverse effects related to hormonal imbalance. Lavender oil is widely recognized for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing properties. When diluted appropriately (typically 1-3% for adolescents), lavender oil is considered safe for use across various age groups, including teenagers.
Additional Safety Advice
Purchase from Reputable Sources: It’s crucial to buy essential oils from reputable companies to avoid adulterated products that could cause harm, such as skin irritation or toxicity. Ensure you're using 100% pure, unadulterated lavender oil for therapeutic purposes.
Consult a Professional: If you're unsure about dilution or usage recommendations, always seek advice from a certified aromatherapist or healthcare provider, especially when using essential oils with children, adolescents, elderly or those with sensitive medical conditions. This ensures safety and maximizes the therapeutic benefits of oils like lavender.
Conclusion
In summary, concerns about lavender essential oil as a potential hormone disruptor lack sufficient evidence. The few case reports that exist are anecdotal and not backed by rigorous scientific studies. Authorities such as NAHA, AIA, and the Tisserand Institute uphold lavender oil as safe for use in adolescents when applied within proper dilution guidelines. Its gentle, soothing properties make it one of the safest and most effective oils for supporting emotional well-being, skin care, and overall health during adolescence.
