The Healing Benefits of Comfrey

Comfrey ‘Symphytum officinale’ is a fast growing perennial herb that is a member of the borage family. Native to Europe comfrey has a rich history of medical use dating back to ancient times, but since the industrial revolution and the rise of pharmaceutical medicine has been sadly overlooked throughout most of the western world.

Fixing of broken and fractured bones with comfrey

Perhaps the most well known of comfreys uses, is its ability to speed up and aid in the healing of brakes or factures, it is thought this is largely due to a substance known as allantoin that aids granulation and cell formation within our bodies.  As well as helping to fix bones comfrey also has powerful anti inflammatory properties, making it a great choice for treating swelling including bruises and small grazes. Do not use comfrey on open wounds.

Uses:

·         Astringent

·         Anti-inflammatory

·         Cell proliferator

·         Demulcent

·         Heals bones & fractures

How to use Comfrey?

Traditionally the preparation of comfrey leaves has involved mixing dried comfrey (preferably ground) with warm water and a binding agent such as plant oil or aloe vera, this creates a salve like paste which can be applied to the problem areas with ease.

Cautions:

The use of comfrey is restricted in a number of countries around the world, this is due to a toxic alkaloid known as pyrrolizidine. It is thought that once dried this will be at such low levels as to not incur risk to humans, but until more evidence is available we advise talking to your GP or Naturopath before starting use. Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. 

Drop us a comment if you have used comfrey in the past or know of any use's we have missed out.