Heartseed vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Heartseed

Cardiospermum halicacabum

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Description

A tropical climbing vine whose extract is used in European dermatology as a cortisone-free anti-inflammatory for eczema.

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, Proanthocyanidins, Quebrachitol

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

Traditional Uses

Skin conditions, Rheumatism, Earache, Eye inflammation

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

Modern Uses

Topical anti-inflammatory (cortisone alternative), Anti-eczema, Anti-pruritic

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

Adult Dosage

Topical cream: apply 2-3x daily to affected skin

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

Known allergy

allergy to shea

Side Effects

Mild skin irritation (rare)

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