Calendula arvensis vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Calendula arvensis

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Calendula arvensis

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Mediterranean Calendula with similar but milder medicinal properties to C. officinalis.

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

Active Compounds

triterpenoids, flavonoids, carotenoids, essential oils

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

Traditional Uses

Wound healing in Mediterranean folk medicine, Skin conditions, Anti-inflammatory

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

Modern Uses

Wound healing, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial

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

Adult Dosage

2-4 g dried flowers as tea; topical cream

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

Ragweed allergy, Pregnancy in high doses

allergy to shea

Side Effects

Allergic reactions

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