Carpobrotus edulis vs Calliandra calothyrsus

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Carpobrotus edulis

Skin and Topical

Skin and Topical

Carpobrotus edulis

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Calliandra calothyrsus

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Creeping succulent from South Africa with large purple or yellow flowers and edible figs, used by Khoikhoi people.

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

Active Compounds

flavonoids, tannins, organic acids, pinitol, ononitol

tannins, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids

Traditional Uses

Traditional Khoikhoi use for mouth and throat conditions, Used for wounds and burns

wound healing, cough, skin conditions

Modern Uses

Wound healing, Sore throat gargle, Burn treatment, Anti-diarrheal

wound healing, expectorant, anti-inflammatory

Adult Dosage

Juice from leaves applied topically; Fruit eaten

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

Contraindications

No specific contraindications established

pregnancy

Side Effects

No well-documented adverse effects

GI upset

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E