Ageratum houstonianum vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Ageratum houstonianum

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Ageratum houstonianum

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Mexican ornamental Asteraceae used in folk medicine for fever and wound healing.

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

Active Compounds

precocenes, flavonoids, alkaloids

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

Traditional Uses

Fever treatment in Mexican folk medicine, Wound healing

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

Modern Uses

Antipyretic effects, Wound healing

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

Adult Dosage

5-10 g leaf decoction

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

Pregnancy - juvenile hormone disruption

allergy to shea

Side Effects

Mild GI upset

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