The effects of odor on cortisol and testosterone in healthy adults.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to verify the influence of odor on the endocrine system (Cortisol, Testosterone). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three odors (Musk, Rose and Floral) and air were given to 16 healthy volunteers (8 males, 8 females), and cortisol (C) and testosterone (T) levels were measured before and after stimulation. RESULTS: Each odor decreased levels of C, indicating that odor can attenuate stress. In males, T decreased with Musk, but increased with Floral. In females, T significantly increased with Musk, but decreased with Rose and Floral. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that influences on hormone levels depend on the type of odor, and sex differences exist in response to odors.