Comfrey, a common herbal remedy for external use, contains a substance known as allatoin that the skin easily absorbs. This substance encourages the growth of new skin cells, reduces inflammation, heals underlying tissue and helps knit together bones and tendons. Although comfrey is considered safe to use topically, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns against taking the herb internally. Comfrey contains toxic substances when ingested that may cause severe liver damage and even death. Never apply comfrey remedies to open wounds or broken skin, as the herb may close a wound with an infection still inside.
Comfrey Poultice
A comfrey poultice makes an effective external treatment for varicose veins, bruises, surgical scars, sprains, muscle pain, torn ligaments, tendinitis and even broken bones, according to Julie Bruton-Seal in her book "Backyard Medicine." To make a comfrey poultice, chop three large, fresh comfrey leaves, place in a blender, add ¼ cup water, and blend until you achieve a soup-like consistency. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and add up to 2 cups of flour, a handful at at time, until you have a gel-like, spreadable consistency. Spread the poultice mixture onto a piece of cloth large enough to cover the affected area, and then store in a zipper-lock plastic bag in the freezer until needed. Apply the cloth cold, or allow to thaw and apply at room temperature.
Bruise Ointment
According to Sarah Merson in her book "The Top 100 Traditional Remedies," an ointment made from comfrey leaves may help expedite the healing of bruises. To make, fill the bottom of a double-boiler with water and bring to a boil. Add 1/2 cup petroleum jelly or paraffin wax to the top of the double boiler, reduce heat to medium-low, and then add 1/2 cup chopped, fresh comfrey leaves to the jelly or wax. Allow the mixture to simmer for about an hour, and then strain through a piece of cheesecloth. Pour immediately into a glass storage jar and allow to set before using.
Sore Muscle Infusion
Cynthia Black, author of "Natural and Herbal Family Remedies," recommends making an oil infusion using comfrey leaves and thyme to help relieve sore muscles. To make, fill the bottom of a double-boiler with water and bring to a boil. Add five fresh, chopped comfrey leaves, six sprigs of fresh thyme and 4 cups olive oil to the top of the double-boiler. Reduce heat to medium-low and allow the mixture to simmer for three hours. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or piece of cheesecloth, and store in a glass bottle when not in use. Massage into sore muscles as needed.
Skin Salve
Comfrey makes a nourishing salve for dry or rough skin, according to Miranda Smith, author of "Your Backyard Herb Garden." Make a comfrey salve by first steeping 2 to 4 tbsp. comfrey leaves in 1 cup boiling water for 30 minutes, and then straining. Combine the comfrey tea with 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil in a saucepan. Boil gently until the water evaporates and the oil stops bubbling, usually about 30 minutes. Reduce heat to low, add 1 1/8 oz. beeswax and stir constantly until the wax melts. Add 1/4 tsp. tincture of benzoin, a natural preservative, and stir well to combine. Transfer the salve into clean jars, label and store in a cool, dark place. Use daily to improve dry skin.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Comfrey
- "Backyard Medicine: Harvest and Make Your Own Herbal Remedies"; Julie Bruton-Seal, Matthew Seal; 2009
- "The Top 100 Traditional Remedies: 100 Home Remedies for Health and Well-Being"; By Sarah Merson; 2007
- "Natural and Herbal Family Remedies"; Cynthia Black; 1996
- "Your Backyard Herb Garden"; Miranda Smith; 1999
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