Kedrostis africana vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Kedrostis africana

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Kedrostis africana

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

South African cucurbit used by Zulu healers for skin conditions, boils, and as purgative.

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

Active Compounds

cucurbitacins, saponins, flavonoids

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

Traditional Uses

Skin conditions and boils in Zulu medicine, Purgative use, Wound healing

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

Modern Uses

Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Laxative properties

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

Adult Dosage

Tuber paste applied topically; small amounts internally

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Internal use in high doses - cucurbitacin toxicity

allergy to shea

Side Effects

Severe GI toxicity internally

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