Ingredient
Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Water
Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Water is flagged for pregnancy. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body.
- Meadowsweet Flower Water
- Filipendula Ulmaria Water
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
- 1 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 1 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Water and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
Spiraea ulmaria (meadowsweet) flower water is a botanical hydrosol with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is notable for naturally containing salicylates—compounds chemically similar to aspirin. Meadowsweet was actually one of the plants from which salicylic acid was originally derived. The concern during pregnancy relates to the salicylate content. While the concentration of salicylates in flower water is typically much lower than in concentrated extracts or pharmaceutical preparations, there is theoretical risk with regular use. Oral aspirin and high-dose salicylates are contraindicated in pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, due to risks including premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus, bleeding complications, and potential effects on platelet function. While topical absorption from flower water would be much less than oral intake, ACOG recommends caution with salicylate-containing products. The exact salicylate concentration in cosmetic meadowsweet flower water varies by product and processing method. Most obstetricians recommend avoiding or limiting exposure to salicylate-containing botanicals during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester when risks are highest. While flower water has lower salicylate levels than concentrated extracts, pregnant women who prefer to avoid all potential salicylate exposure may want to choose alternative soothing botanicals.
Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Water and breastfeeding
Safe to Use
Meadowsweet flower water is a gentle hydrosol with soothing properties used in skincare products. While the plant contains salicylates, the concentration in flower water is generally very low. The use of meadowsweet flower water during breastfeeding is considered low-risk. The salicylate content in cosmetic flower water is minimal, and topical application results in negligible systemic absorption. Any trace amounts that might theoretically be absorbed would be far below levels that could transfer to breast milk in meaningful concentrations. Low-dose topical salicylates are not considered problematic for breastfeeding by lactation consultants. The AAD does not list topical botanical salicylates at cosmetic concentrations among ingredients to avoid while breastfeeding. Breastfeeding mothers can generally use products containing meadowsweet flower water without significant concern. Those with specific concerns about any salicylate exposure or who have infants with aspirin sensitivities may prefer alternative soothing botanicals.
Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Water and postpartum
Safe to Use
Meadowsweet flower water can be safely used during the postpartum period by women who are not breastfeeding. The soothing and anti-inflammatory properties may be beneficial for skin that experienced changes during pregnancy. There are no restrictions on postpartum use of this ingredient for women who are not breastfeeding. The gentle nature of flower water makes it suitable for use during this period of hormonal transition and skin recovery.
Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Water and trying to conceive
Safe to Use
Meadowsweet flower water is a topical botanical ingredient with soothing properties. While it contains trace salicylates, the concentration in flower water is minimal and the ingredient does not have systemic effects that would impact fertility. Women trying to conceive can use products containing meadowsweet flower water without concern. The ingredient does not affect reproductive hormones, accumulate in the body, or interfere with conception. Once pregnancy is confirmed, you may want to reconsider use due to salicylate content, but during the TTC phase, this ingredient poses no concerns.
Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Water and PCOS
Safe to Use
Meadowsweet flower water provides anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits that can be helpful for PCOS-related skin concerns. The ingredient does not have hormonal activity or effects on androgen levels. For women with PCOS who may experience inflammation-related skin issues, the gentle anti-inflammatory properties of meadowsweet flower water can provide support. The ingredient does not interfere with PCOS management or affect insulin sensitivity. This ingredient is safe for PCOS and can be incorporated into your skincare routine to help address inflammation and provide gentle, botanical skin support without hormonal concerns.
Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Water and general use
Safe to Use
Spiraea ulmaria flower water is a gentle botanical hydrosol valued for its soothing and toning properties. It is suitable for various skin types and is often used in products targeting sensitive or reactive skin. The ingredient is generally well-tolerated with a low potential for irritation. The main consideration is for individuals with aspirin allergies or salicylate sensitivities, who may want to avoid products containing meadowsweet. However, allergic reactions are uncommon, and most people can use meadowsweet flower water without issues. The salicylate content in flower water is much lower than in concentrated extracts or leave-on treatments. For most users, meadowsweet flower water provides gentle, plant-based soothing benefits with minimal risk of adverse effects. It can be incorporated into daily skincare routines, particularly for those seeking natural anti-inflammatory ingredients.
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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