Cucubalus baccifer vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Cucubalus baccifer

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Cucubalus baccifer

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

European vine-like herb with berries; used in minor folk remedies for skin conditions.

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

Active Compounds

saponins, tannins, flavonoids

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

Traditional Uses

skin conditions, minor wounds

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

Modern Uses

topical wound care

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

Adult Dosage

Topical as needed

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

internal use

allergy to shea

Side Effects

skin irritation

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