Centella Erecta Herb vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Centella Erecta Herb

Centella erecta

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Centella Erecta Herb

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Upright Centella species used in African and Asian folk medicine similarly to classical gotu kola for 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

asiaticoside, madecassoside, betulinic acid, ursolic acid

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

Traditional Uses

wound healing in African folk medicine, skin condition treatment, cognitive support tea

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

Modern Uses

wound healing, anti-inflammatory, cognitive enhancing

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

Adult Dosage

2-4g dried herb as tea or topical poultice

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

liver disease, pregnancy

allergy to shea

Side Effects

rare hepatotoxicity, headache at high doses

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