Comfrey, or Symphytum officinale, is a traditional medicinal herb commonly used to treat sprains, broken bones and bruises. Traditionally, comfrey was ingested to treat gastrointestinal problems, but today it's only used topically, due to the herb's toxic compounds. Light applications of creams, ointments or salves contain comfrey. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends using small amounts of these treatments for 10 days at a time maximum, and for no more than four to six weeks total in one year.
Sprains
You can use comfrey in the form of topical creams or salves to treat sprains, strains and other similar sports-related injuries. Comfrey contains in its leaves and roots a substance called allantoin, which promotes new skin-cell growth, and other substances that decrease inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center cites several studies finding that people with sprains, back pain and osteoarthritis of the knee who used comfrey cream experienced faster healing and effective treatment.
Broken Bones
You can also apply comfrey topically to help treat broken bones, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Comfrey creams and ointments may also be helpful in healing pulled muscles and ligaments.
Bruises
Topical applications of comfrey can help to encourage new skin growth and faster healing of bruises. Comfrey has long been used as a traditional external herbal remedy to treat and heal bruises, notes the University of Michigan Health System. Comfrey has been tested with positive results in treating minor wounds and abrasions with bruises, but the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center cautions against applying comfrey to open wounds or breaks in the skin, due to the possibility of toxic effects.
Varicose Veins
Comfrey may also be helpful in treating varicose veins, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Both oral and topical comfrey preparations have been used to treat varicose veins, but only the external remedy is recommended today. Because comfrey contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are toxic and can cause death, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned the sale of oral comfrey products in 2001. Several other countries, such as Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom and Australia, have also prohibited the sale of ingestible supplements or remedies containing comfrey.
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