Cambodian Dragon Tree vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Cambodian Dragon Tree

Dracaena cambodiana

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Cambodian Dragon Tree

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Dragon blood resin-producing tree from Cambodia used in Khmer traditional medicine for wound healing and antidiarrheal.

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

Active Compounds

dracorubin, dracorhodin, flavonoids, tannins

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

Traditional Uses

wound healing remedy, antidiarrheal treatment, treatment of dysentery

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

Modern Uses

wound healing, astringent, antimicrobial

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

Adult Dosage

250-500mg resin extract; topical as needed

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

pregnancy, known allergies to resins

allergy to shea

Side Effects

rare allergic reaction

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