Gynecomastia or more popularly referred to as man boobs plague more than 50 percent of the male population. And it affects both young and adults. There are plenty of known causes for this condition. And since 2007, a question has been raised, particularly with regard to certain essential oils causing man boobs. So, does essential oils cause gynecomastia?
Skincare aromatherapy products particularly those that have tea tree oil or lavender oil can trigger the development of man boobs. While essential oils may have its share of benefits, it is also possible that they cause your male breast problems. In which case, you may be better off without them.
At least this was believed to be true before. But there are now studies debunking such belief as nothing more than a myth.
Does essential oils cause gynecomastia: Is there truth to it?
There have been reported cases of gynecomastia in young adolescent boys who were reported to be using essential oils particularly tea tree and lavender based oils. This probably prompted the association of essential oils to gynecomastia.
As a result, many teenage boys and men stopped using lavender, tea tree and other plant oils altogether. The use of shampoos, soaps and other products including aromatherapy items were banned among the male population through personal initiatives. This is actually more specific to the younger male population.
The belief is that these essential oils contain high amounts of estrogen. And when a male individual has a higher estrogen level and lower testosterone, a hormonal imbalance occurs. In this case, he is more likely to form man boobs. This is further worsened among adolescent boys going through puberty stage.
New studies debunk this belief
People believed that essential oils can cause gynecomastia for a long time. But there are new research studies that completely debunk such a belief. In fact, just because of the cases presented before declares use of these essential oils or the use of commercial products containing them does not automatically make these oils a culprit to gynecomastia. In fact, it was found out that essential oils have low amounts of estrogen, insignificant enough to cause a hormonal imbalance among young adolescent boys.
Does essential oils cause gynecomastia: What does this tell us?
If you or someone you know is suspected to have gynecomastia, it is better to consult first with a professional. This way, you become enlightened about the things you must avoid including foods and products that may worsen the condition. Rather than, sticking to what you may have heard of.
Addressing gynecomastia at an early stage will give you better chances of keeping it under control. So, make it a point to have yourself assessed by a doctor as such is essential in identifying the specific type and cause of the gynecomastia you have.
It is also important to note that 30 to about 60 percent of the male population suffer from this condition. If you are one of the lucky ones who have not developed man boobs yet then you must educate yourself especially about the preventive ways you can take to avoid developing such an embarrassing condition.
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