Ingredient
Rheum Palmatum Root Extract
Rheum Palmatum Root Extract is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding and trying to conceive. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body.
- Chinese Rhubarb Extract
- Turkey Rhubarb Extract
- Rhubarb Root 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
- 3 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 2 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Rheum Palmatum Root Extract and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
Rheum Palmatum is a species of rhubarb used in traditional Chinese medicine, with roots containing anthraquinones (natural laxative compounds), tannins, and other bioactive substances. In cosmetics, it's used for its astringent and skin-brightening properties. The primary concern during pregnancy relates to the oral use of rheum species, which are known to stimulate uterine contractions and cause diarrhea that could lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) recommends avoiding internal use of anthraquinone-containing herbs during pregnancy. While topical application in cosmetics involves much lower systemic exposure than oral consumption, some absorption of anthraquinones through skin is theoretically possible, especially with prolonged use or application to large body areas. Most obstetricians recommend a cautious approach to botanical extracts with known oral risks during pregnancy, even when used topically. While there's no direct evidence of harm from cosmetic use, the lack of specific safety studies and the known risks of oral consumption warrant caution. Many women choose to avoid this ingredient during pregnancy or limit use to small areas with infrequent application.
Rheum Palmatum Root Extract and breastfeeding
Caution Advised
- Passes into breast milk
Rheum Palmatum contains anthraquinone compounds that are known to pass into breast milk when consumed orally as a laxative. While topical cosmetic application results in much lower systemic absorption than oral use, some dermal penetration of these compounds is possible. The American Academy of Pediatrics has historically cautioned about anthraquinone-containing laxatives during breastfeeding due to potential effects on the breastfed infant's gastrointestinal system. While cosmetic use is different from medicinal oral doses, lactation consultants often recommend a precautionary approach to botanical extracts with known milk transfer when consumed internally. Given the limited data on topical use during breastfeeding and the known passage of anthraquinones into breast milk from oral sources, many healthcare providers suggest limiting use or choosing alternative ingredients. If used, application should be kept away from the breast area and limited to small body areas.
Rheum Palmatum Root Extract and postpartum
Safe to Use
- Irritant
For postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, the primary concern is mild skin irritation rather than systemic effects. The extract's antioxidant and brightening properties may be beneficial for addressing postpartum skin concerns like melasma or uneven tone. Without the concerns about breast milk transfer, this ingredient can be used with standard precautions for botanical extracts. Patch testing is recommended due to potential irritation, especially on postpartum sensitive skin.
Rheum Palmatum Root Extract and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
Given that oral consumption of rheum species is contraindicated during pregnancy due to uterine stimulation effects, a precautionary approach is warranted while trying to conceive. While topical cosmetic use has much lower systemic exposure, it's prudent to minimize or avoid use during the conception window. Many healthcare providers recommend discontinuing ingredients with known pregnancy concerns before conception to avoid exposure during the critical early weeks before pregnancy is confirmed. Consider switching to alternative brightening ingredients when actively trying to conceive.
Rheum Palmatum Root Extract and PCOS
Safe to Use
Rheum Palmatum Root Extract has no known hormonal activity or effects on androgen levels, making it appropriate for topical use by individuals with PCOS. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may actually be beneficial for PCOS-related skin inflammation. The extract's astringent properties can help with oil control, which may be helpful for PCOS-related sebum overproduction. There are no concerns about endocrine disruption or interference with PCOS treatments. This ingredient can be safely incorporated into PCOS skincare routines, though those with sensitive skin should patch test first due to potential irritation from the anthraquinone content.
Rheum Palmatum Root Extract and general use
Safe to Use
- Irritant
For the general population not pregnant or breastfeeding, Rheum Palmatum Root Extract is considered safe for topical cosmetic use. It provides antioxidant benefits and may help with skin brightening and tone evenness. The main consideration is potential skin irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin. The anthraquinone content can cause mild irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. It's advisable to patch test products containing this extract before full-face application. The extract is permitted in cosmetics by regulatory bodies, and when used at typical cosmetic concentrations, it poses minimal health risks to the general population. Those with a history of sensitivity to botanical extracts should use caution.
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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