Calliandra calothyrsus vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Calliandra calothyrsus

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Calliandra calothyrsus

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Central American legume tree introduced to Africa and Asia; bark used for wounds and respiratory conditions.

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

Active Compounds

tannins, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids

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

Traditional Uses

wound healing, cough, skin conditions

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

Modern Uses

wound healing, expectorant, anti-inflammatory

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

Adult Dosage

Bark decoction 5-10g 2x/day; topical poultice

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

pregnancy

allergy to shea

Side Effects

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