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Comfrey Root
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Comfrey root has traditional uses as a topical treatment for pain, inflammation, and wounds, but it is toxic when ingested and dangerous on broken skin. The herb contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which can cause severe liver damage and are carcinogenic. Oral comfrey supplements have been banned by the FDA and are not recommended.
Safe topical uses
Comfrey is often applied topically in creams, ointments, or poultices for short-term use on unbroken skin. Clinical studies have shown it may be effective for:
Back pain: Applying comfrey extract cream to the affected area can reduce pain.
Osteoarthritis: Topical comfrey cream has been shown to reduce pain and stiffness and improve function for people with knee osteoarthritis.
Sprains: Studies suggest that comfrey ointment can reduce pain, swelling, and tenderness from sprains, with some showing it to be as effective as diclofenac gel.
Bruises: When applied to the skin, comfrey can reduce the pain and tenderness of bruises.
Closed wounds and skin irritations: The compound allantoin in comfrey helps to promote cell regeneration, making it useful for speeding up the healing of abrasions and soothing minor skin irritations.
Dangers of internal use
Due to the high concentration of toxic PAs, ingesting comfrey can be fatal. The risks include:
Severe liver damage and liver failure, even with short-term use.
Carcinogenic effects.
Precautions
Limit topical use: Use comfrey preparations only on unbroken skin for a maximum of 10 consecutive days and no more than four to six weeks per year.
Never ingest: Do not consume comfrey root, leaves, or teas.
Avoid on open wounds: Do not apply comfrey to open cuts, burns, or broken skin, as the toxic alkaloids can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
Consult a doctor: Always talk to a healthcare provider before using comfrey to understand the potential benefits and risks, especially if you have a pre-existing liver condition.
Contraindications: Comfrey should be avoided by children, pregnant or nursing women, and individuals with liver or kidney disease.
Alternative and historical uses
Historically, comfrey was known as "knitbone" or "boneset" and used internally for ailments like stomach ulcers and respiratory issues. However, the toxicity risks associated with these internal uses are now well-documented, and they are no longer recommended.
In addition to medicinal uses, comfrey is a valuable plant for gardeners:
Compost accelerator: The leaves act as a good source of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus for compost.
Liquid fertilizer: Fermented comfrey leaves can create a nutrient-rich liquid feed for plants.
Mulch: Placing comfrey leaves around plants helps enrich the soil as they decompose.
Beneficial insect habitat: Comfrey flowers attract pollinators like bees.
100% ORGANIC
Comfrey root has traditional uses as a topical treatment for pain, inflammation, and wounds, but it is toxic when ingested and dangerous on broken skin. The herb contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which can cause severe liver damage and are carcinogenic. Oral comfrey supplements have been banned by the FDA and are not recommended.
Safe topical uses
Comfrey is often applied topically in creams, ointments, or poultices for short-term use on unbroken skin. Clinical studies have shown it may be effective for:
Back pain: Applying comfrey extract cream to the affected area can reduce pain.
Osteoarthritis: Topical comfrey cream has been shown to reduce pain and stiffness and improve function for people with knee osteoarthritis.
Sprains: Studies suggest that comfrey ointment can reduce pain, swelling, and tenderness from sprains, with some showing it to be as effective as diclofenac gel.
Bruises: When applied to the skin, comfrey can reduce the pain and tenderness of bruises.
Closed wounds and skin irritations: The compound allantoin in comfrey helps to promote cell regeneration, making it useful for speeding up the healing of abrasions and soothing minor skin irritations.
Dangers of internal use
Due to the high concentration of toxic PAs, ingesting comfrey can be fatal. The risks include:
Severe liver damage and liver failure, even with short-term use.
Carcinogenic effects.
Precautions
Limit topical use: Use comfrey preparations only on unbroken skin for a maximum of 10 consecutive days and no more than four to six weeks per year.
Never ingest: Do not consume comfrey root, leaves, or teas.
Avoid on open wounds: Do not apply comfrey to open cuts, burns, or broken skin, as the toxic alkaloids can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
Consult a doctor: Always talk to a healthcare provider before using comfrey to understand the potential benefits and risks, especially if you have a pre-existing liver condition.
Contraindications: Comfrey should be avoided by children, pregnant or nursing women, and individuals with liver or kidney disease.
Alternative and historical uses
Historically, comfrey was known as "knitbone" or "boneset" and used internally for ailments like stomach ulcers and respiratory issues. However, the toxicity risks associated with these internal uses are now well-documented, and they are no longer recommended.
In addition to medicinal uses, comfrey is a valuable plant for gardeners:
Compost accelerator: The leaves act as a good source of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus for compost.
Liquid fertilizer: Fermented comfrey leaves can create a nutrient-rich liquid feed for plants.
Mulch: Placing comfrey leaves around plants helps enrich the soil as they decompose.
Beneficial insect habitat: Comfrey flowers attract pollinators like bees.