Heliotropium europaeum vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Heliotropium europaeum

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Heliotropium europaeum

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Mediterranean weed with historical uses for skin ulcers and warts; significant hepatotoxicity risk.

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

Active Compounds

pyrrolizidine alkaloids, heliotrine, lasiocarpine

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

Traditional Uses

warts, skin ulcers, fever (historical)

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

Modern Uses

historical wound care (now largely avoided)

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

Adult Dosage

Not recommended due to toxicity

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

internal use strictly contraindicated, liver disease, pregnancy

allergy to shea

Side Effects

severe hepatotoxicity, veno-occlusive disease

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