Skin Conditioning
RUBIA CORDIFOLIA ROOT POWDER
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Indian madder root powder — a traditional brightening botanical. Anthraquinone content (particularly lucidin-family) drags the score down toward orange territory.
Rubia cordifolia (Indian madder, Manjistha) root powder is milled from the red-pigmented root of a traditional Ayurvedic botanical. Its anthraquinone content (purpurin, munjistin, and lucidin derivatives) gives characteristic red pigment and has historically been used for dyeing as well as in skincare. The concern is that some anthraquinones in the Rubia family — particularly lucidin — have shown genotoxicity signals in EU food-safety reviews, which is why the related Rubia tinctorum was restricted. Rubia cordifolia is less regulated but the chemical class concern persists. EU CosIng lists the ingredient. Cosmetic use should stay low and supplier documentation on lucidin content is recommended.
Skin benefits
- Traditional Ayurvedic brightening and skin-conditioning use
- Source of natural anthraquinone pigments
- Moderate antioxidant activity
Known concerns
- Anthraquinones (e.g. lucidin) raise genotoxicity concerns in the Rubia genus
- Deep red pigment stains strongly
- Limited reassuring modern cosmetic data
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related skin conditionings
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.