Ingredient
Pilocarpus Pennatifolius Leaf Extract
Pilocarpus Pennatifolius Leaf Extract is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to conceive and general use. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body.
- Jaborandi Leaf Extract
- Pilocarpus Extract
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Not Recommended
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 4 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 3 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Pilocarpus Pennatifolius Leaf Extract and pregnancy
Not Recommended
- Absorbed into the body
Pilocarpus pennatifolius leaf extract is derived from the jaborandi plant, which contains pilocarpine, a parasympathomimetic alkaloid with pharmaceutical effects. In cosmetics, it's sometimes included in hair products for claimed stimulating properties. The presence of pilocarpine and related alkaloids raises significant concerns during pregnancy. Pilocarpine is a pharmaceutical agent that affects the nervous system and can stimulate smooth muscle contractions. While topical cosmetic formulations contain lower concentrations than medical preparations, the potential for systemic absorption and effects on uterine muscle make this ingredient concerning. There are no adequate studies on the safety of jaborandi extracts during pregnancy. Medical professionals generally recommend avoiding products containing pharmacologically active botanical alkaloids during pregnancy due to unpredictable absorption and effects. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises caution with botanicals that have known pharmaceutical actions, particularly those affecting smooth muscle or the nervous system.
Pilocarpus Pennatifolius Leaf Extract and breastfeeding
Not Recommended
- Passes into breast milk
Pilocarpus pennatifolius extract contains pilocarpine, an alkaloid that affects the nervous system and stimulates secretions. Pilocarpine is known to be excreted in breast milk when used in pharmaceutical formulations. The concern with jaborandi extract during breastfeeding stems from pilocarpine's ability to transfer into breast milk and its potential effects on breastfed infants. Even though cosmetic formulations contain lower alkaloid concentrations than pharmaceutical preparations, the bioactive nature of these compounds creates theoretical risk for infant exposure. Pilocarpine can cause increased salivation, sweating, and other cholinergic effects. Most healthcare providers and lactation consultants recommend avoiding topical products containing jaborandi or pilocarpus extracts during breastfeeding due to the presence of pharmacologically active alkaloids. The AAD notes that botanicals with known systemic pharmaceutical effects should be used cautiously during lactation.
Pilocarpus Pennatifolius Leaf Extract and postpartum
Safe to Use
- Irritant
Pilocarpus pennatifolius leaf extract contains bioactive alkaloids, primarily pilocarpine, which can stimulate secretions and have mild effects on the nervous system. For postpartum women not breastfeeding, the main concern is potential skin irritation rather than systemic effects. While this ingredient doesn't pose breastfeeding-related concerns for women not breastfeeding, the alkaloid content means it may cause more irritation than typical botanical extracts. Postpartum skin is often more sensitive, so patch testing is advisable before using products containing this ingredient.
Pilocarpus Pennatifolius Leaf Extract and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
Pilocarpus pennatifolius leaf extract contains pilocarpine, a pharmacologically active alkaloid. While there's no specific evidence linking it to fertility issues, the presence of bioactive compounds that can have systemic effects warrants caution during the preconception period. Since this ingredient would be considered high-risk during pregnancy due to its alkaloid content and potential smooth muscle effects, many healthcare providers recommend discontinuing its use when actively trying to conceive. This eliminates any theoretical risk once pregnancy occurs, as conception timing can be unpredictable.
Pilocarpus Pennatifolius Leaf Extract and PCOS
Safe to Use
Pilocarpus pennatifolius leaf extract is a botanical ingredient containing alkaloids that have stimulating properties. It's sometimes used in hair and scalp products for its claimed ability to promote circulation. For women with PCOS, this ingredient doesn't have known hormonal effects or interactions with androgen metabolism. The pilocarpine content doesn't affect insulin sensitivity or contribute to hormonal imbalance characteristic of PCOS. Women with PCOS can use products containing this ingredient, though those with sensitive skin should note that the alkaloid content may cause more irritation than gentler botanical extracts. It has no impact on PCOS symptoms or hormone levels.
Pilocarpus Pennatifolius Leaf Extract and general use
Caution Advised
- Irritant
Pilocarpus pennatifolius leaf extract is derived from the jaborandi plant, which is rich in pilocarpine, an alkaloid with pharmaceutical properties. In cosmetics, it's occasionally used in hair care formulations for its purported stimulating effects on the scalp. The presence of pilocarpine and related alkaloids distinguishes this ingredient from typical botanical extracts. Pilocarpine is a pharmaceutical compound used medically to stimulate secretions and can cause systemic effects including excessive sweating, salivation, and in sensitive individuals, cardiovascular effects. While cosmetic concentrations are lower than pharmaceutical doses, absorption through compromised skin or application to large areas could lead to unwanted effects. The ingredient may also cause contact dermatitis and irritation. Pilocarpus extracts are permitted in cosmetics but require careful formulation. The general population can use products containing this ingredient, but those with sensitive skin, cardiovascular conditions, or respiratory issues should exercise caution. It's typically found in specialized hair care products rather than leave-on facial cosmetics.
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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