Hamamelis Mollis Herb vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Hamamelis Mollis Herb

Hamamelis mollis

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Description

Chinese witch hazel with fragrant winter flowers used similarly to common witch hazel for astringent and anti-inflammatory purposes.

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

Active Compounds

hamamelitannin, gallic acid, catechins, essential oils

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

Traditional Uses

astringent skin treatment in Chinese folk medicine, anti-inflammatory wound remedy, venous tonic

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

Modern Uses

astringent, anti-inflammatory, venous tonic

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

Adult Dosage

Topical distillate; 1-3g bark as tea

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

none established for topical

allergy to shea

Side Effects

dryness from excessive topical use

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