Rumex obtusifolius vs Vitellaria Paradoxa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Rumex obtusifolius

Skin and Topical

Vitellaria paradoxa

Skin and Topical

Description

European weed traditionally applied to nettle stings; cooling leaf poultice for skin irritations.

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

Active Compounds

tannins, oxalates, anthraquinones, flavonoids

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

Traditional Uses

nettle sting relief, skin irritation, blisters, itching

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

Modern Uses

topical anti-inflammatory, cooling skin poultice

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

Adult Dosage

Fresh leaf poultice applied to sting or irritation

Shea butter applied topically as needed

Contraindications

kidney disease (oxalates), known allergy

allergy to shea

Side Effects

oxalate absorption with extensive 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