Ingredient
Rheum Palmatum Root/Stalk Extract
Rheum Palmatum Root/Stalk Extract is flagged for pregnancy and trying to conceive. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body.
- Chinese Rhubarb Extract
- Rhubarb Root Extract
- Turkey Rhubarb 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
- 1 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Rheum Palmatum Root/Stalk Extract and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
Rheum palmatum (Chinese rhubarb) is a botanical extract containing anthraquinones, compounds traditionally used for their laxative properties when consumed orally. In cosmetics, it serves as an astringent to tighten pores and control oil. While topical application has much lower absorption than oral consumption, anthraquinones can theoretically be absorbed through skin. Oral rhubarb preparations are not recommended during pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulation effects. The concern with topical use stems from the same chemical constituents, though absorption rates are significantly lower. Specific studies on topical rhubarb extract during pregnancy are lacking. Due to theoretical concerns about anthraquinone absorption and the known effects of oral rhubarb during pregnancy, many dermatologists recommend avoiding rhubarb-containing products as a precautionary measure. Women who are pregnant may prefer to use alternative astringent ingredients with better-established safety profiles.
Rheum Palmatum Root/Stalk Extract and breastfeeding
Safe to Use
Rheum palmatum extract is used topically as an astringent in skincare products. While oral consumption of rhubarb can pass compounds into breast milk, topical application has minimal systemic absorption. The primary concern with oral rhubarb during breastfeeding is that anthraquinones can transfer to breast milk and potentially cause diarrhea in breastfed infants. However, topical cosmetic use involves much lower concentrations and minimal skin penetration compared to oral intake. For topical cosmetic products containing rhubarb extract, the risk to breastfeeding mothers and infants is considered low due to minimal systemic absorption. Most dermatologists consider topical use acceptable, though avoiding application directly on breast tissue is advisable as a precaution.
Rheum Palmatum Root/Stalk Extract and postpartum
Safe to Use
For postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, rheum palmatum extract can be used safely as an astringent ingredient. It helps control oil production and tighten pores, which can be beneficial for postpartum skin changes. The antioxidant properties may help with skin recovery and protection. There are no specific concerns for non-breastfeeding postpartum women using this ingredient topically.
Rheum Palmatum Root/Stalk Extract and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
Women trying to conceive should approach rhubarb extract with the same caution as early pregnancy, since conception timing is often uncertain. The theoretical concerns about anthraquinone absorption apply similarly. While topical absorption is minimal, many fertility specialists recommend avoiding ingredients during the TTC phase that would be restricted during pregnancy. This precautionary approach helps ensure safety from the moment of conception.
Rheum Palmatum Root/Stalk Extract and PCOS
Safe to Use
Rheum palmatum extract's astringent properties can be particularly beneficial for women with PCOS who experience oily skin and acne due to elevated androgen levels. The extract helps regulate sebum production and tighten pores. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds in rhubarb extract may help reduce skin inflammation associated with PCOS-related acne. There are no known hormone-disrupting effects from topical use. This ingredient is considered safe for women with PCOS and may actually provide benefits for managing common skin concerns associated with the condition.
Rheum Palmatum Root/Stalk Extract and general use
Safe to Use
For the general population, rheum palmatum extract is a safe and beneficial cosmetic ingredient. Its astringent properties help tighten pores and control oil, making it popular in products for oily or combination skin. The extract contains antioxidants including emodin and chrysophanol, which help protect skin from environmental damage and may have anti-aging benefits. These compounds also provide anti-inflammatory effects. Topical use at cosmetic concentrations is well-tolerated by most people. Minor irritation may occur in sensitive individuals, but serious adverse effects are rare with topical application.
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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