The comfrey plant was once used internally and externally in holistic naturopathic medicine. However, because of the danger of using it internally, it is now only used for external purposes. Comfrey oil is typically used to make balms, creams and ointments. You should only use comfrey under the supervision of a physician, and never take comfrey internally.
Origin
Comfrey oil comes from the comfrey plant. The plant is originally native to western Asia and Europe, but it now grows in many parts of North America. The perennial plant can be found in most types of soils, and is identified by white, blue or purple flowers that grow in dense clusters. The plant grows up to five feet tall, and has a thick and hairy stem. The leaves are oblong, and the root is black with a fleshy white inside. Most preparations are made from the leaves of the comfrey plant. Traditionally, the root had been used, as well.
Benefits
The University of Michigan Health System states that comfrey was once used internally to treat lung problems, ulcers and gastrointestinal problems. However, this use has ceased because of the toxicity of the plant. There is also a long history in traditional folk medicine of using balms made with the oil topically to treat bruises, skin ulcers and wounds. The UMHS states that there is not enough scientific evidence to show the benefit of using comfrey oil externally. Comfrey has been referred to as boneset or knitbone because of this history of using to heal wounds. Comfrey oil is sometimes used in aromatherapy, as well.
Chemical Constituents
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that the allantoin in comfrey oil may be responsible for the plant's ability to heal the skin. Comfrey also contains mucilage. The toxic component of comfrey oil is pyrrolizidine alkaloids, according to the Federal Drug Administration. Liver damage from the use of pyrrolizidine alkaloid can cause death in as soon as two weeks or as long as two years after ingestion. According to the FDA, the alkaloid has been found in honey and milk after cows or bees ate the plants. Concentration of pyrrolizidine alkaloid is highest in the young leaves and roots of the comfrey plant, and in preparations made with these parts of the plant.
Precautions
The first signs of toxicity resulting from the use of comfrey may include gastrointestinal problems, abdominal pain or vomiting, according to the FDA. The toxic alkaloids may be even more concentrated in oils made from the plant. According to the UMMC, the alkaloids may be absorbed through your skin and build up in the body, so it should be used only in small amounts and for not more than 10 days at a time and four weeks out of a year. It is especially important to avoid using comfrey products on broken skin, reports the UMMC. Since comfrey can result in severe liver poisoning and death, you should never use it internally. Comfrey should also not be used in any method or form by children, elderly, or pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Method
Oils may be made from the roots or leaves of comfrey plants. They can be made by macerating parts of the plant in a carrier oil such as almond or vegetable oil. Oils are not used in their pure form, but are instead mixed with beeswax, lotions or balms for use. The more concentrated comfrey essential oils are made either through the process of distillation or extraction. There are also PA, or pyrrolizidine alkaloid, free oils that can be purchased that may be safer, according to UMHS.
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