Agave sisalana vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Agave sisalana

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Description

Fiber-producing agave from Mexico widely cultivated in Africa and elsewhere, used in traditional medicine.

West African tree whose seeds produce shea butter, used widely in traditional medicine for skin conditions, anti-inflammatory applications, and food.

Active Compounds

hecogenin, saponins, agavins, vitamins, minerals

triterpene alcohols, allantoin, cinnamic acid esters, stearic acid, oleic acid

Traditional Uses

Traditional Yucatec Maya use for wound healing and digestive conditions, Used in East African folk medicine for skin and digestive conditions

skin conditions, wound healing, inflammation, muscle pain, sun protection

Modern Uses

Wound healing antiseptic, Anti-inflammatory, Steroid hormone synthesis precursor, Antifungal

skin moisturizing, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, UV protection

Adult Dosage

Topical sap for wounds; no established internal dose

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

Skin irritation from raw sap

allergy to shea

Side Effects

Skin dermatitis

rare allergic contact dermatitis

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E