Pau Rosa vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Pau Rosa

Aniba rosaeodora

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Pau Rosa

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vitellaria Paradoxa

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Amazonian rosewood tree whose bark and wood yield a valued aromatic essential oil used in Amazonian healing rituals and perfumery.

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

Active Compounds

linalool, alpha-terpineol, geraniol, nerol, cineole

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

Traditional Uses

Aromatic healing in Amazonian indigenous medicine, Ritual purification and spiritual use, Skin conditions topically, Wound healing

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

Modern Uses

Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory, Skin regenerating, Aromatherapeutic

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

Adult Dosage

Diffuse 2-4 drops for aromatherapy; dilute 2% in carrier oil for topical use

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

Undiluted on sensitive skin, Pregnancy in medicinal doses

allergy to shea

Side Effects

Skin sensitization with repeated undiluted use

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