Breast enhancements are performed by surgeons through implants. Although the treatment is more common for women, men are increasingly interested in such body enhancements. A cheaper alternative on the market for male breast enhancement comes in the form of herbs. However, the efficacy of such products is unfounded, and herbal enhancements can even cause dangerous side effects. Discuss all enhancement options with a doctor.
Features
Herbal breast enhancements are marketed as a natural way to increase the size of the breast area. They come in the form of creams and pills derived from herbs known to increase the amount of estrogen in the body, which purportedly increases breast size. According to Quickcare.org, male breast enhancements often contain lavender oil and tea tree oil. Many companies do not list all of the ingredients of such products.
Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a condition in which males form breast tissue as a result of natural amounts of estrogen in the body. According to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, gynecomastia is classified as 2 cm of male breast tissue or more surrounding the nipple. This condition is not caused by herbal breast enhancements and usually disappears on its own after adolescence. In some severe cases, surgery can be conducted to reduce breast tissue in men.
Risks
Herbal breast enhancements contain phytoestrogens. According to the Mayo Clinic, phytoestrogens can lead to breast cancer over time. Herbal supplements such as those for breast enhancement can interact with other herbs and drugs you may take, particularly those for thinning blood. Tea tree oil is present in many breast enhancements. Medline Plus warns against taking tea tree oil orally, as it can cause rash, confusion and coma.
Other Forms of Enhancement
Breasts can be enhanced unintentionally through antidepressants, birth control pills and estrogen hormone replacements. The Mayo Clinic says herbal breast enhancements do not mimic these effects. Furthermore, these drugs should not be taken for the purpose of breast enhancement.
Bottom Line
No evidence supports herbal breast enhancements for women or men. Such supplements are often expensive and do not show any real results. The Mayo Clinic advises that you seek other treatment options for breast enhancement. Treatment is usually in the form of surgical implants. If you are interested in trying herbs for enhancement, speak with a doctor first to avoid interactions.
