Gypsophila paniculata vs Stellaria media

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Gypsophila paniculata

Skin and Topical

Skin and Topical

Gypsophila paniculata

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Stellaria media

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Ornamental with saponin-rich roots used as soap substitute; pharmaceutical adjuvant for oral vaccines.

Common garden weed with cooling anti-inflammatory properties; widely used for skin conditions and as food.

Active Compounds

gypsogenin saponins, saponosides, tannins

saponins, flavonoids, coumarins, vitamin C, minerals

Traditional Uses

skin cleansing, soap substitute, expectorant

eczema, psoriasis, itching, cough, constipation

Modern Uses

saponin source for vaccines, detergent substitute, expectorant

topical anti-inflammatory, skin soothing, nutritive food

Adult Dosage

Not established for internal use

5-10g fresh herb or 2-3g dried tea 3x/day

Contraindications

internal use can cause hemolysis

known allergy

Side Effects

GI irritation, hemolysis with high doses

mild GI upset in large quantities

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E