5 Best Essential Oils To Boost Testosterone (Science-Based)

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Published by James Cunningham, BSc, CPT | Staff Writer & Senior Coach
Last updated: November 28, 2023
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Addressing low testosterone levels, essential oils provide a scientifically proven, albeit less conventional, method compared to injections or supplements.

Having worked with male fitness clients for over a decade, I've researched and tested these oils to determine their efficacy in balancing hormones and enhancing mood, potentially leading to increased testosterone levels.

Read on to discover how various essential oils can naturally boost testosterone, learn effective usage methods, and find a bonus tip for other natural ways to raise your T levels.

Quick Summary

  • To boost testosterone, the 5 best essential oils are rose, clary sage, lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood oil.
  • Lavender and chamomile oils can promote mental and physical relaxation, thereby assisting in the regulation of hormones, including testosterone.
  • 2 percent of men suffer from low testosterone levels, with symptoms including fatigue, erectile dysfunction, and reduced muscle mass.
  • Based on experience, essential oils can help promote hormonal balance; however, it's crucial to supplement their use with healthy lifestyle choices and natural supplements to enhance overall wellness.

5 Essential Oils To Boost Testosterone Levels

bottles of oil

Essential oils are primarily used for aromatherapy, but they are gradually emerging as reliable natural remedies for low testosterone levels. Here are five of the best oils you can use to address low testosterone levels.

1. Rose

Rose essential oil promotes hormonal balance, especially in the brain, increasing serotonin and neuropeptide levels for improved mood and alleviating symptoms of depression.

According to the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, it also enhances testosterone production, sex drive, sperm count, and motility [1].

Recognized as an aphrodisiac, it induces feelings of self-confidence and happiness, enhancing sensuality and performance in bed.

2. Clary Sage

Clary Sage has the capacity to stimulate the endocrine system, liver, brain, nervous system, and circulatory system. It is effective for hormone balance and the regulation of estrogen.

A study on the antidepressant-like effects of clary sage oil reveals that it can help improve sexual desire and possesses antidepressant capabilities, contributing to improved T levels [2].

Also, this 2014 study also found that inhaling sage oil reduced cortisol levels by 36% and improved thyroid hormone levels, demonstrating its antidepressant and mood-enhancing effects.

3. Lavender

lavender in a spoon

Lavender essential oil, known for its relaxing properties, doesn't directly cause hormonal changes, unlike the first two oils mentioned.

According to a study in The European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, lavender oil exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, positively impacting T levels [3].

From personal experience, I've found lavender oil effective in reducing stress and regulating hormone production, supporting natural improvement in T levels.

4. Chamomile

According to the National Institute of Health, chamomile oil promotes relaxation for both the body and mind, aiding in hormone regulation, including testosterone [4].

Furthermore, a randomized controlled trial investigating the effects of lavender and chamomile essential oil inhalation through aromatherapy reveals that it can help reduce stress and anxiety [5].

In my personal experience, chamomile oil has proven effective in calming my body and mind, facilitating a more restful sleep every night.

5. Sandalwood

According to a study evaluating the effects of Sandalwood essential oil after transdermal absorption, it is found to generally induce a feeling of relaxation and can function as a natural aphrodisiac [6].

Due to its effectiveness in balancing hormonal levels and enhancing sex drive, sandalwood is often added to men's cologne and specific perfumes.

Having personally used sandalwood oil, I've found that adding a few drops of this oil to lotion not only gives a pleasant scent but also potentially enhance low libido.

Does Frankincense Essential Oil Helps Boost Testosterone?

According to a study on the effects of ten essential oils, including frankincense, it was found that these oils help increase salivary hormone concentration, potentially benefiting hormone regulation [7].

This effect could be attributed to their soothing aroma and stress-reducing properties, indirectly supporting hormone balance by reducing stress levels.

While further research is required, anecdotal evidence suggests that the traditional use of these oils may contribute to overall wellness and positively impact hormone balance.

Why Use Essential Oils For Low Testosterone?

Close up shot of a bottle of essential oil

Essential oils, derived from plants and citrus rinds, have a long history in herbal medicine for therapeutic benefits.

While topical testosterone treatments exist for low T, they may cause side effects like mood changes, skin problems, and sexual dysfunction, as per National Library of Medicine [8].

Opting for the natural approach is my preferred choice, but it's important to talk to a doctor before incorporating essential oils for testosterone enhancement into your routine.

Why Low Testosterone Is A Problem?

man upset

According to the Urology Care Foundation, two percent of men deal with low testosterone levels [9]. Symptoms of low T include:

  • Fatigue
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sleep changes
  • Reduced lean muscle mass
  • Appetite changes

The prevalence of low testosterone has risen due to some factors like a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, heightened stress levels, and certain drugs that can influence testosterone levels.

As a fitness trainer, it's essential to tackle any decline in T levels, and I recommend opting for natural approaches first, like considering essential oils, before opting for more serious treatments.

Using Essential Oils To Boost Testosterone

bottles of essential oil

Given the current trend, essential oils are expected to play a significant role in the wellness industry in the coming years. To maximize their benefits, follow these steps:

  1. Choose High-Quality Oils: Differentiate between essential oils and fragrance oils. Essential oils, concentrated extracts from plants, offer beneficial compounds, while fragrance oils are synthetic and diluted. Look for natural and delightful aromas as indicators of quality.
  2. Seek Expert Guidance: Understand the science behind essential oils by consulting trusted coaches or health practitioners. Be cautious of cheaply priced oils, as they may be fake.
  3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Combine essential oil use with regular exercise, healthy eating, and wholesome lifestyle choices for overall well-being. Establishing these habits enhances the healing and health-boosting effects of essential oils.

How Do Essential Oils Work?

woman using essential oil on her wrist

Each oil affects the systems of the body differently, and there are various common methods of using them.

Inhalation

According to research from the National Institute of Health, inhaling essential oils stimulates over 1,000 receptors in the nasal cavity, sending signals to the limbic system and impacting various bodily systems [10].

Additionally, the research indicates that as the oils reach the lungs and pass through the alveoli into the capillary arteries, they become small enough to cross the blood-brain barrier.

In my personal experience, incorporating the practice of inhaling essential oils throughout the day has been a mood-enhancing experience, contributing to better lifestyle decisions.

Topical Application

shirtless man getting massaged

You can apply essential oil individually or blend it with carrier oils like avocado, olive, sesame, or coconut oil. Dilution lessens skin sensation, slows absorption (crucial for children), spreads the oil for a larger area, and prolongs its effects. Exercise caution when applying to the skin.

"Applying essential oils to your skin is also generally safe, but avoid applying them to your eyes, ears, and mouth. You should also avoid applying them over broken or irritated skin."

- Dr. Susan Werner, Family Medicine Physician, Geisinger

Once absorbed, essential oils can have local or systemic effects. For systemic use, the soles of your feet are effective due to their large pores allowing quick absorption.

Ingestion

Ingesting essential oils is a debated subject in alternative health, and while some oils are edible, it's not always necessary. Personally, I don't recommend consuming essential oils orally without a physician's recommendation.

If your doctor approves, just note that essential oils are hydrophobic, meaning they will only rise to the top if taken with water.

Other Natural Ways To Boost Testosterone

Essential oils are commonly used to enhance mood, induce relaxation, and potentially contribute to hormonal balance. To further boost testosterone levels, consider these natural methods alongside essential oil use:

  1. Regular Workout: Include weight training or high-intensity interval training at least three times a week. When combined with essential oils, especially during post-workout recovery, it can enhance your fitness regimen and contribute to hormonal balance.
  2. Eat Healthy Fats and Get Vitamin D: Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids and coconut oil into your diet while avoiding junk food and limiting sugar intake. Ensure sufficient Vitamin D3, vital for testosterone, by spending 20 minutes in the sun daily.
  3. Quality Sleep: Prioritize quality sleep to reset your body's internal clock and release chemicals that balance hormones. Using essential oils at bedtime can enhance relaxation and sleep benefits, further supporting hormonal balance.

FAQs

What Is the Best Oil for Testosterone Growth?

The best oils for testosterone growth are rose, chamomile, Clary Sage, Sandalwood, and Lavender essential oils. Other oils, like eucalyptus, frankincense, and mint, have also shown effectiveness in regulating testosterone production, providing natural support for hormonal balance.

Does Peppermint Oil Boost Testosterone?

Peppermint oil may not boost testosterone levels, as research from the National Institute of Health indicates a potential decrease. Additionally, spearmint, another specific type of mint, has been shown to directly influence testosterone levels. It's advisable to exercise caution and explore alternative essential oils for testosterone support.


References:

  1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2225411015000954?via
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24802524/
  3. https://www.europeanreview.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/943.pdf
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33454232/
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33454232/
  6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14765284/
  7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28326753/
  8. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a605020.html
  9. https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/l/low-testosterone
  10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9041268/
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About The Author

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Staff Writer & Senior Coach
James Cunningham, BSc, CPT holds a BSc degree in Sport & Exercise Science from University of Hertfordshire. He's a Health & Performance Coach from London that brings a unique blend of academic knowledge of health supplements and practical exercise experience to the table for his readers.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Dr. Kristy June Dayanan, BS, MD is an author with a BS degree from University of the Philippines and an MD from University of Perpetual Help System. Her ability to simplify medical science complexities and dietary supplement jargon for the average reader makes her a valued medical fact checker and reviewer.
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Dr. Harshi Dhingra, MBBS, MD is a published peer-reviewed author and renowned physician from India with over a decade of experience. With her MBBS from Bharati Vidyapeeth and an MD from Rajiv Gandhi University, she actively ensures the accuracy of online dietary supplement and medical information by reviewing and fact-checking health publications.
Learn more about our editorial policy

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