What Is Comfrey & How Is It Used?

Comfrey, or Symphytum officinale, is also known as knitbone, blackwort, ass ear and bruisewort. Its name means "grow together" or "unite." Historically, it was used to heal wounds, stop heavy bleeding and promote the healing of broken bones. Comfrey was once used to treat internal ailments, including digestive problems, stomach ulcers, diarrhea and internal bleeding, but oral use of comfrey has since been banned due to its toxicity. Consult your doctor before using comfrey externally.

About Comfrey

Comfrey is a leafy green, perennial plant found growing in temperate climates in parts of North America, Europe and Asia. The plant produces one to two thick, hairy stems bearing clusters of white, lavender or blue flowers. The roots are black with a fleshy white inside. At one time, the entire plant was used for medicinal purposes, but now only its above-ground parts, especially its older leaves, are used to make herbal preparations. Comfrey can be used externally as a cream, ointment or poultice.

Precautions Against Internal Use Of Comfrey

Comfrey contains poisonous substances called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are extremely toxic to the liver, capable of causing permanent liver damage and liver failure leading to death. The University of Maryland Medical Center states the internal used of comfrey was banned by the FDA in 2001 and all oral preparations containing comfrey were removed from the market. Other countries, including Germany, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom have likewise banned its use. The plant's roots contain the highest concentration of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, so only the above-ground parts are used to make topical herbal products.

External Healing Properties

Comfrey is still available commercially for external use. However, comfrey should never be used on an open wound, scrape or irritated skin as it can be quickly absorbed into your bloodstream. Comfrey reduces pain and inflammation, and a cream or ointment can be applied to hasten healing of bruises, strains and sprains. According to Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., noted nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Herbal Healing," comfrey contains several active compounds, including allantoin, which stimulates the growth of new cells via cell proliferation, promotes healing of insect bites, and reduces wrinkles and varicose veins. A poultice made from comfrey can be applied to a broken bone or arthritic joint to reduce inflammation.

Use Of Comfrey

You should only use comfrey under the direct supervision of your healthcare provider or herbalist. Comfrey should not be used on children and you should not use comfrey if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center states comfrey should not be used for more than 10 days consecutively and not for more than a total of four to six weeks per year. Do not use comfrey if you have liver disease or cancer.