Hevea brasiliensis vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Hevea brasiliensis

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Hevea brasiliensis

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Amazonian tree source of natural rubber latex; bark decoction used in Brazilian folk medicine for wound healing.

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

Active Compounds

latex proteins, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids

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

Traditional Uses

wound healing, skin conditions, antiseptic (bark)

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

Modern Uses

traditional wound care, folk antiseptic

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

Adult Dosage

Bark decoction topically as needed

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

latex allergy, internal use

allergy to shea

Side Effects

severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis

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