Ingredient
Matrine
Matrine is flagged for pregnancy and breastfeeding. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body and fetal development.
- Sophora Root Extract
- Kushen 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
- 2 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 2 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Matrine and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
- Fetal development
Matrine is a bioactive alkaloid extracted from Sophora flavescens root, traditionally used in Chinese medicine. In cosmetics, it provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. While specific pregnancy studies on topical matrine are limited, oral matrine has shown pharmacological activity affecting the immune system and liver function. Animal studies of oral matrine at high doses have shown some reproductive effects, though these doses far exceed cosmetic exposure. The concern with topical use during pregnancy relates to potential systemic absorption of this bioactive compound and limited safety data specific to pregnancy. ACOG has not issued specific guidance on matrine. However, given its status as a pharmacologically active alkaloid with limited pregnancy safety data, many practitioners recommend a precautionary approach. Pregnant women may choose to avoid products with matrine, particularly in the first trimester, or limit use to occasional application rather than daily use.
Matrine and breastfeeding
Caution Advised
- Passes into breast milk
- Absorbed into the body
Matrine is a bioactive alkaloid compound that can be absorbed systemically when applied to skin, though at lower levels than oral administration. There are no studies examining matrine levels in breast milk following topical cosmetic use. However, as an alkaloid with known systemic effects when taken orally, there is theoretical concern about transfer to breast milk. Matrine's pharmacological activity in traditional medicine suggests it could have biological effects if transferred to a breastfed infant. The AAD and lactation experts have not established clear guidelines for topical matrine during breastfeeding. Given the limited data and the ingredient's bioactive nature, a conservative approach would be to minimize use or choose well-studied alternatives during breastfeeding.
Matrine and postpartum
Safe to Use
For postpartum women not breastfeeding, matrine can provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits to help address skin concerns that may arise during the postpartum period. Without pregnancy or breastfeeding concerns, the main considerations are individual skin tolerance. Women should monitor for any irritation and use products as directed.
Matrine and trying to conceive
Safe to Use
Matrine is a bioactive compound used in cosmetics for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, with some systemic absorption possible. While oral matrine at medicinal doses has shown reproductive effects in animal studies, topical cosmetic use involves much lower exposure. However, women actively trying to conceive may prefer to adopt pregnancy-safe practices early. If used, limiting application to small areas and avoiding daily use would minimize any theoretical exposure.
Matrine and PCOS
Safe to Use
Matrine has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help address acne, a common concern for women with PCOS. Research suggests matrine can help reduce inflammation and may have antibacterial effects against acne-causing bacteria. For women with PCOS who experience hormonal acne, these properties could be beneficial. There is no evidence that topical matrine affects androgen levels or insulin sensitivity. Women with PCOS can use products containing matrine for its skin benefits, monitoring for any individual sensitivity.
Matrine and general use
Safe to Use
- Irritant
Matrine is an alkaloid extracted from Sophora flavescens root with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. In cosmetics, it's used for its potential benefits in addressing acne and inflammatory skin conditions. Research has shown matrine can help reduce skin inflammation and may have antibacterial effects. However, as a bioactive compound, it may cause irritation in some individuals, particularly at higher concentrations. Some people may be sensitive to botanical alkaloids. For the general non-pregnant, non-breastfeeding population, matrine is considered acceptable for use in cosmetics when formulated appropriately. Users should monitor for any signs of irritation and discontinue use if sensitivity occurs.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
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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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A label has thirty of them. Truva reads the whole list at once and answers for the profile you set: pregnancy, breastfeeding, postpartum, trying to conceive, PCOS, or general use.
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