Cerinthe major vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Cerinthe major

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Cerinthe major

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Mediterranean ornamental with traditional uses for skin wounds and bee forage; honey medicinal properties.

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

Active Compounds

mucilage, flavonoids, tannins

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

Traditional Uses

skin wounds, bee sting relief, honey production

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

Modern Uses

topical wound care, bee sting treatment

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

Adult Dosage

Topical as needed

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

known allergy

allergy to shea

Side Effects

contact dermatitis

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