Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract

Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract and pregnancy

Caution Advised

• Absorbed into the body

Plectranthus Barbatus (Coleus Forskohlii) Root Extract contains forskolin, a compound that can activate certain cellular pathways. While primarily known as an oral supplement, this extract is also used topically in skincare products at much lower concentrations. Oral forskolin supplements are not recommended during pregnancy due to potential effects on uterine smooth muscle and insufficient safety data. While topical absorption from cosmetic products is significantly lower than oral supplementation, there is theoretical concern about forskolin's biological activity. Some herbalists and practitioners advise caution with Coleus forskohlii during pregnancy regardless of route of administration. There are no definitive regulatory prohibitions on topical use in cosmetics during pregnancy, but the limited pregnancy-specific data and concerns about the oral form lead many healthcare providers to recommend avoiding this ingredient during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. Pregnant women may prefer to choose skincare products without this extract.

Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract and breastfeeding

Safe to Use

When used topically in cosmetics, Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract has minimal systemic absorption compared to oral supplementation. The concentrations used in skincare products are typically much lower than therapeutic oral doses. There is limited specific data on topical use during breastfeeding. While oral forskolin supplements are generally not recommended during lactation due to insufficient safety data, topical cosmetic use represents a much lower exposure. The likelihood of significant transfer to breast milk from topical application is low. Most dermatologists consider topical botanical extracts at cosmetic concentrations to be low risk during breastfeeding. Women who are particularly cautious may choose to avoid products with this ingredient, but it's not classified as a high-risk topical ingredient for breastfeeding mothers.

Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract and postpartum

Safe to Use

Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract is safe for postpartum use in cosmetics when not breastfeeding. Its anti-inflammatory properties may benefit postpartum skin without any specific concerns. The extract can be used in skincare products during the postpartum period to help soothe skin and provide conditioning benefits without restrictions for women who are not breastfeeding.

Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract and trying to conceive

Caution Advised

Women trying to conceive may want to avoid Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract as a precautionary measure due to limited data and the recommendation to avoid oral forskolin supplements when attempting pregnancy. While topical cosmetic use has much lower systemic exposure than oral supplements, some practitioners recommend discontinuing products with this ingredient during the preconception period. The concern is primarily based on the oral supplement form and its potential biological activities. Topical use in cosmetics presents much lower exposure, but women who prefer to be cautious during the preconception period may choose products without this extract.

Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract and PCOS

Safe to Use

Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract does not have known hormone-disrupting properties that would concern women with PCOS. The forskolin it contains has been studied for metabolic effects when taken orally as a supplement, but topical cosmetic use is different. The anti-inflammatory properties of this extract may be beneficial for skin experiencing PCOS-related inflammation. There's no evidence that topical use interferes with androgen levels or insulin sensitivity. Women with PCOS can safely use cosmetics containing this botanical extract. There are no known interactions with PCOS treatments or symptoms when used topically in skincare products.

Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract and general use

Safe to Use

Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract, also known as Coleus Forskohlii, is a botanical extract used in cosmetics for its conditioning and anti-inflammatory properties. The root contains forskolin, a compound that has been studied extensively as an oral supplement but is also used topically in skincare at much lower concentrations. In cosmetic formulations, this extract is generally well-tolerated and provides antioxidant and soothing benefits. The safety concerns associated with oral forskolin supplements (such as effects on blood pressure and metabolism) are not applicable to topical cosmetic use due to minimal systemic absorption. For the general population, this ingredient is considered safe in topical cosmetic products. It has a good safety profile with minimal risk of irritation or adverse effects when used in skincare formulations.

Everything else flagged for the same profiles

• Flagged in pregnancy
• Flagged in trying to conceive

Related ingredients

Ingredients suggested in place of Plectranthus Barbatus Root Extract, each one with its own page here.

• Niacinamide
• Allantoin

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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 15 September 2026.