Comfrey, or Symphytum officinale, is native to Asia and Europe, although herbalists and gardeners grow it in many places of the world, including the United States. The leaves and the root of the comfrey plant have a long history of use, dating back more than 2,000 years for both internal and external disorders, including ulcerative colitis. This herb may be carcinogenic and toxic to the liver, according to the "PDR for Herbal Medicines." Seek professional medical advice before using comfrey.
Comfrey: The Herb
Comfrey grows in rich well-drained soil, reaching a height of 4 feet and displaying fronds of light purple blooms in early summer. Comfrey contains allantoin, a compound thought to confer healing benefits, although studies verifying that claim are lacking. Comfrey also contains mucilage, which may impart a soothing film on mucus membranes, including the lining of the large intestine. Unfortunately, comfrey also contains Pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are potentially dangerous to your health.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis involves inflammation of the lining of the large intestine, which causes abdominal cramping and diarrhea. MayoClinic.com advises patients that there is no cure for this inflammatory bowel disease, but treatment may control undesirable symptoms. See your doctor if you experience symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Traditional Comfrey Uses
A tea of comfrey root is prepared by pouring 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of the dried root powder and steeping for 10 minutes. In addition to treating colitis, comfrey root teas and infusions were traditional treatments for other internal conditions, including strep throat, gastritis, pleurisy, diarrhea and rheumatism.
Warnings
Although popular in herbal circles, the internal use of comfrey root is controversial, based on information that Pyrrolizidine alkaloids may cause cancer. In 2001, the FDA issued a warning to supplement manufacturers, asking them to remove ingestible comfrey products from the market. Do not use comfrey to treat ulcerative colitis, unless approved and supervised by a medical doctor.
References
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, Ph.D.; 2000
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- MayoClinic.com: Ulcerative Colitis
- "FDA Advises Dietary Supplement Manufacturers to Remove Comfrey Products From the Market"; Christine J. Lewis, Ph.D.; May 1, 2009
