Ingredient
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract is flagged for pregnancy. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body.
- Purple Gromwell Root Extract
- Zicao Extract
- Murasaki Root Extract
- Shikon Extract
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Caution Advised
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 1 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 1 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
Lithospermum erythrorhizon root extract contains shikonin and related naphthoquinone compounds with potent anti-inflammatory properties. While beneficial for skin conditions, shikonin has been studied for various biological activities including effects on cellular processes. The primary concern during pregnancy relates to oral consumption rather than topical use. Traditional Chinese medicine literature cautions against internal use of Lithospermum during pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulation effects from shikonin compounds. However, topical application in cosmetics results in minimal systemic absorption. Studies specifically on topical use during pregnancy are limited, leading some conservative practitioners to recommend avoiding it during the first trimester as a precautionary measure. ACOG does not specifically address this ingredient as it's primarily used in Asian beauty products. Most dermatologists familiar with the ingredient consider topical cosmetic use low-risk, particularly after the first trimester, as absorption is minimal. However, due to limited pregnancy-specific data and traditional medicine cautions about oral use, some women may prefer alternative anti-inflammatory ingredients during early pregnancy.
This one changes across the pregnancy.
- First trimester
- CAUTION
- Second trimester
- SAFE
- Third trimester
- SAFE
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract and breastfeeding
Safe to Use
Lithospermum erythrorhizon root extract used topically in cosmetics poses minimal risk during breastfeeding. The shikonin compounds have poor skin penetration and limited systemic absorption from topical application. While specific breastfeeding studies are lacking, the dermatological consensus is that topical use of this traditional botanical extract is acceptable during breastfeeding. The molecular characteristics of shikonin and its derivatives suggest minimal transfer to breast milk from cosmetic applications. Lactation experts do not list it as a concern. Breastfeeding mothers can use skincare products containing Lithospermum erythrorhizon extract, particularly for its soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits. Apply products away from the breast area to prevent any infant contact during feeding.
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract and postpartum
Safe to Use
Lithospermum erythrorhizon root extract can be beneficial during the postpartum period for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. It may help with skin recovery and soothing any irritation or sensitivity. For postpartum women not breastfeeding, this botanical extract offers excellent anti-inflammatory benefits without concerns. Its traditional use in wound healing and skin repair makes it particularly suitable for postpartum skin recovery and addressing any pregnancy-related skin changes.
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract and trying to conceive
Safe to Use
Lithospermum erythrorhizon root extract used topically in cosmetics has no known impact on fertility. While traditional medicine cautions about oral consumption, topical application results in minimal systemic absorption and is not expected to affect reproductive function. Women trying to conceive can use skincare products containing this extract. Reproductive endocrinologists do not flag topical botanical extracts with poor systemic absorption as fertility concerns. However, women who prefer maximum caution due to the traditional medicine cautions about oral use may choose alternatives during the conception period.
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract and PCOS
Safe to Use
Lithospermum erythrorhizon root extract can benefit women with PCOS through its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The shikonin compounds have been studied for their ability to inhibit bacteria associated with acne, making it useful for hormonal breakouts. This botanical extract has no known hormonal activity and does not affect androgen levels or insulin sensitivity. It works purely through local anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial mechanisms, making it safe for women managing PCOS. Dermatologists treating PCOS-related acne sometimes recommend products with Lithospermum erythrorhizon extract for its natural antimicrobial properties. It can help manage inflammation and breakouts without interfering with hormonal PCOS treatments or contributing to hormonal imbalances.
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract and general use
Safe to Use
Lithospermum erythrorhizon root extract is a traditional botanical ingredient rich in shikonin and related naphthoquinone compounds. It's valued in skincare for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. The extract has been used for centuries in Asian traditional medicine and is increasingly popular in modern cosmetics for calming and soothing formulations. Research demonstrates that Lithospermum erythrorhizon extract is well-tolerated in cosmetic applications. Studies on shikonin show it has low toxicity when applied topically and provides beneficial anti-inflammatory effects. Adverse reactions are rare, though individuals with sensitivities to botanical extracts should patch test. The ingredient is considered safe for most users, including those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Lithospermum erythrorhizon root extract is approved for cosmetic use in the EU, US, and Asian markets without concentration restrictions. It appears in the EU's CosIng database as an approved cosmetic ingredient. The long history of traditional use combined with modern safety studies supports its safe incorporation into skincare formulations. Dermatologists recognize it as a beneficial botanical ingredient for anti-inflammatory and soothing applications.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
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Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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