Oxytocin is a hormone that has been dubbed the “love hormone” because of its role in social bonding and trust. It is released by the brain during social interactions such as touching, hugging, and sex.

Studies have suggested that oxytocin supplements may have potential benefits for relationships, including improving communication and reducing conflict. However, a new study has found that oxytocin supplements may be ineffective in resolving relationship problems.

The Study

The study, which was published in the journal Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, involved 120 couples who were experiencing relationship problems. The couples were randomly assigned to receive either oxytocin supplements or a placebo.

The participants were instructed to take the supplements every day for two weeks.

At the end of the two-week period, the researchers assessed the couples’ relationship satisfaction and communication. They found no significant differences between the oxytocin group and the placebo group.

Both groups showed improvement in their relationship satisfaction and communication, but there was no evidence to suggest that oxytocin supplements were more effective than a placebo.

Previous Studies

The results of this study are in contrast to some previous research that has suggested that oxytocin supplements may have benefits for relationships.

For example, a study published in the journal PLOS One in 2013 found that oxytocin supplements improved communication and reduced stress levels in couples who were experiencing relationship conflict. Another study published in the journal Biological Psychiatry in 2012 found that oxytocin supplements improved social cognition in individuals with autism, which could potentially have benefits for their relationships.

However, it is important to note that these previous studies had smaller sample sizes and different methods than the current study. Therefore, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of oxytocin supplements for relationships.

The Bottom Line

While the idea of a “love hormone” that can improve relationships is certainly appealing, the current study suggests that oxytocin supplements may not be the miracle cure for relationship problems that some had hoped for.

However, it is still possible that oxytocin supplements may have some benefits for certain individuals. More research is needed to fully understand the effects of oxytocin supplements on relationship satisfaction and communication.

Conclusion

Overall, the current study suggests that oxytocin supplements may not be an effective solution for resolving relationship problems.

While previous research has suggested that oxytocin supplements may have potential benefits for relationships, the current study found no significant differences between oxytocin and a placebo. It is important to continue researching the potential benefits of oxytocin supplements for relationships in order to fully understand their effects.