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

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to verify the influence of odor on the endocrine system (Cortisol, Testosterone).

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.