Haworthia attenuata vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Haworthia attenuata

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Haworthia attenuata

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

A South African succulent related to aloe; leaves used topically in folk medicine for minor burns and 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, flavonoids, mucilage

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

Traditional Uses

Topical burn treatment, Skin conditions, Folk medicinal use

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

Modern Uses

Wound care, Limited research

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

Adult Dosage

Fresh leaf gel topically

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

Rare sensitivity

allergy to shea

Side Effects

Mild skin reactions

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