Hydrocotyle umbellata vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Hydrocotyle umbellata

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Hydrocotyle umbellata

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

American aquatic herb similar to gotu kola, used in folk medicine for skin and nervous conditions.

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

Active Compounds

asiaticosides, triterpenes, flavonoids

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

Traditional Uses

Skin conditions in American folk medicine, Nervous conditions, Memory support

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

Modern Uses

Skin healing, Cognitive support, Anti-inflammatory

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

Adult Dosage

3-6 g dried herb as tea

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

Pregnancy in high doses

allergy to shea

Side Effects

Mild GI upset

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