Ingredient
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding, postpartum, trying to conceive, PCOS and general use.
- Madder Root Extract
- Common Madder Extract
- Dyer's Madder
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
- 6 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 2 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract and pregnancy
Not Recommended
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract, also known as madder root, is derived from a plant historically used for dyeing. In cosmetics, it provides soothing and coloring properties. However, madder root contains anthraquinone compounds that have raised toxicological concerns. The primary concern during pregnancy relates to the anthraquinone derivatives present in madder root, particularly lucidin and rubiadin. According to ECHA assessments, some of these compounds have shown genotoxic and potentially carcinogenic properties in animal studies. While these studies primarily involved oral administration, the presence of these compounds raises concerns about any exposure during pregnancy, a period when cell division and development are critical. There is insufficient data on topical absorption during pregnancy, but the potential for systemic exposure combined with the toxicological profile warrants caution. Given the SCCS concerns about madder root's anthraquinone content and the lack of comprehensive safety data for pregnant women, most healthcare providers would recommend avoiding this ingredient during pregnancy. There are many alternative soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredients with better-established safety profiles.
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract and breastfeeding
Caution Advised
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract contains anthraquinone compounds that have raised toxicological concerns in scientific assessments. When applied topically, some systemic absorption may occur, though the extent is not well-characterized. The concern during breastfeeding relates to the potential for anthraquinone compounds to enter systemic circulation and transfer to breast milk. While there are no specific studies on madder root use during breastfeeding, the ECHA and SCCS concerns about certain anthraquinones suggest a cautious approach is warranted. Some anthraquinones are known to have laxative effects and could potentially affect the breastfed infant if transferred through milk. Given the limited safety data and the toxicological concerns raised by European regulatory bodies, many healthcare providers would recommend avoiding or limiting exposure to madder root extract during breastfeeding. Safer alternatives exist for achieving similar soothing benefits.
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract and postpartum
Caution Advised
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract may provide soothing benefits for postpartum skin, but the presence of potentially concerning anthraquinone compounds identified by ECHA and SCCS means that alternative soothing ingredients may be preferable. For women not breastfeeding, the primary concern shifts to the general safety profile of the ingredient. While topical use may result in lower exposure compared to oral consumption, the SCCS opinion on madder root suggests that products should be formulated to minimize anthraquinone content. Women may prefer to choose soothing ingredients with clearer safety profiles.
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract contains anthraquinone compounds that have raised genotoxicity concerns in regulatory assessments. While there is no direct evidence linking topical madder root use to fertility issues, the presence of compounds with potential genotoxic properties suggests a cautious approach for women trying to conceive. Given the ECHA and SCCS concerns about certain anthraquinones, women trying to conceive may prefer to choose alternative ingredients with clearer safety profiles during this important period. The precautionary principle suggests avoiding ingredients with potential genotoxic properties when planning pregnancy.
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract and PCOS
Caution Advised
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract is used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. There are no known specific interactions with PCOS or effects on hormone levels. However, the general toxicological concerns raised by ECHA and SCCS regarding certain anthraquinones in madder root suggest that women with PCOS, like the general population, may benefit from choosing alternative soothing ingredients with better-established safety profiles. The anti-inflammatory benefits sought from madder root can be obtained from numerous other botanicals without the associated concerns. While madder root does not specifically affect hormones relevant to PCOS, the presence of potentially problematic compounds means that alternatives may be preferable for regular use in skincare routines.
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract and general use
Caution Advised
- Carcinogen concern
Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract has been used historically for centuries as a natural dye and in traditional medicine. In modern cosmetics, it appears in some natural formulations for its soothing and coloring properties. However, the SCCS has raised concerns about madder root extracts containing certain anthraquinone derivatives, particularly lucidin and rubiadin, which have shown genotoxic and potentially carcinogenic effects in animal studies. According to ECHA assessments, these compounds warrant careful evaluation. The level of concern depends on the concentration of these specific anthraquinones in the extract and the frequency of product use. While not completely banned in cosmetics, the EU regulatory framework requires that products containing madder root be formulated to minimize exposure to concerning anthraquinones. Consumers may choose to avoid products with madder root or select formulations from manufacturers that provide documentation about anthraquinone testing. Many alternative soothing ingredients are available without these concerns.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
Ingredients suggested in place of Rubia Tinctorum Root Extract, each one with its own page here.
Ingredients that raise the same concerns.
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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