Hypericum patulum vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Hypericum patulum

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Hypericum patulum

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

East Asian ornamental Hypericum used in Japanese and Chinese traditional medicine.

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

Active Compounds

hyperpatulone, hypericin traces, flavonoids, phenolic acids, naphthodianthrones

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

Traditional Uses

wound healing, skin conditions, antimicrobial

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

Modern Uses

anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, vulnerary

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

Adult Dosage

2-4g dried herb or topical application

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

photosensitivity, antidepressants

allergy to shea

Side Effects

photosensitivity

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