Ingredient
Salvia Officinalis Extract
Salvia Officinalis Extract is flagged for pregnancy and breastfeeding. The concern behind the strongest flag is hormone disruptor and absorbed into the body.
- Sage Extract
- Common Sage Extract
- Garden Sage 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
- 2 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Salvia Officinalis Extract and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Hormone disruptor
- Absorbed into the body
Salvia Officinalis Extract, commonly known as sage extract, is a botanical ingredient derived from sage leaves. It contains compounds including thujone, camphor, and phytoestrogens that provide antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits in skincare products. While topical use in cosmetics involves much lower concentrations than oral supplements, sage contains compounds with potential hormonal activity. Oral sage consumption is cautioned against during pregnancy by herbalists and some healthcare providers due to its traditional use in reducing milk supply and potential uterine stimulant properties. The concern with topical application is less clear, as absorption is significantly lower, but the presence of phytoestrogens and thujone raises theoretical concerns about hormonal effects during pregnancy. There is no explicit prohibition from ACOG or FDA regarding topical sage in cosmetics during pregnancy, but many healthcare providers recommend a cautious approach given its known effects when consumed orally. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) notes concerns about sage supplements during pregnancy. Most dermatologists suggest that occasional topical exposure in cosmetics is likely safe, but pregnant women who prefer to minimize exposure to potentially hormone-active botanicals may choose to avoid products with sage as a prominent ingredient.
Salvia Officinalis Extract and breastfeeding
Caution Advised
- May affect milk supply
Sage extract has well-documented effects on lactation when consumed orally. Traditionally, sage has been used to reduce milk supply during weaning due to its ability to decrease prolactin levels and inhibit milk secretion. While topical application in cosmetics results in much lower systemic absorption than oral consumption, there is theoretical concern that regular use of products containing sage extract could affect milk supply in some women. Lactation consultants often advise breastfeeding mothers to avoid oral sage supplements, and some extend this caution to topical products, particularly if applied to large body surface areas or used frequently. The concern is primarily based on oral use data, and the risk from typical topical cosmetic exposure is likely minimal. However, given sage's known mechanism of action on lactation, breastfeeding mothers who notice any decrease in milk supply or who are concerned about maintaining adequate production may choose to avoid products prominently featuring sage extract.
Salvia Officinalis Extract and postpartum
Safe to Use
For postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, Salvia Officinalis Extract offers beneficial antioxidant and antimicrobial properties without the lactation concerns. It can help soothe skin and provide protection against environmental stressors. The extract's antimicrobial properties may be particularly beneficial for postpartum skin that is experiencing changes or minor concerns. Its antioxidant content supports skin recovery and can help address oxidative stress that may affect skin during the postpartum period.
Salvia Officinalis Extract and trying to conceive
Safe to Use
Salvia Officinalis Extract in cosmetic concentrations is unlikely to affect fertility or conception. While oral sage consumption has known effects on hormones and milk production, topical application in skincare products involves minimal systemic absorption. Women trying to conceive can generally use cosmetics containing sage extract without concern. If pregnancy is achieved, they may wish to reassess use during pregnancy based on individual preference and healthcare provider guidance. The primary concerns with sage relate to pregnancy and breastfeeding rather than the conception period.
Salvia Officinalis Extract and PCOS
Safe to Use
Salvia Officinalis Extract can be beneficial for women with PCOS, particularly those experiencing acne or inflammation. Its antimicrobial properties help combat acne-causing bacteria, while its antioxidant compounds support overall skin health. Some research suggests that sage may have mild anti-androgenic effects when consumed, though this has not been well-studied for topical application. In cosmetic concentrations, the ingredient is unlikely to have significant hormonal effects and is primarily valued for its antimicrobial and soothing properties beneficial for PCOS-related skin concerns. Dermatologists often recommend botanical antimicrobials like sage extract for managing hormonal acne associated with PCOS. The extract provides gentle antibacterial action without the harsh effects of some synthetic alternatives, making it suitable for regular use in PCOS skincare routines.
Salvia Officinalis Extract and general use
Safe to Use
Salvia Officinalis Extract is a versatile botanical ingredient valued for its multiple skincare benefits. It provides antioxidant protection, helps control excess oil, offers antimicrobial activity against acne-causing bacteria, and can soothe minor skin irritations. The extract is generally well-tolerated, though individuals with sensitivities to plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae) may experience mild irritation. Some people may find it slightly drying due to its astringent properties, making it particularly suitable for oily or combination skin types. Sage extract has been used in cosmetics and traditional medicine for centuries, with a good safety profile for topical use. It's approved for use in cosmetics globally and is commonly found in products targeting oily skin, acne, or those seeking natural preservative systems.
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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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A label has thirty of them. Truva reads the whole list at once and answers for the profile you set: pregnancy, breastfeeding, postpartum, trying to conceive, PCOS, or general use.
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