Comfrey

Species name:  symphytum officinale.

Also known as: Ass Ear, Black Root, Blackwort, Boneset, Bruisewort, Consolida, Consound, Gum Plant, Knitbone, Salsify, Slippery Root, Wallwort.

Comfrey is a unique herb with many great uses that has been around for many years and used in different cultures as medicine for illnesses and ailments.

What is comfrey? Comfrey has been used since around 400BC.

The word comfrey, derived from the Latin word for "grow together", reflects the early uses of this plant.

Greeks and Romans used comfrey to stop heavy bleeding, treat bronchial problems, and heal wounds and broken bones.

In the early 20th century, allantoin, an active ingredient in Comfrey, was frequently prescribed as a remedy for wounds and ulcers.

Its old English name was 'knit-bone' or 'boneset' because of its ability to heal wounds.

That ability is one that is still believed today although there is some controversy that has arisen over the safety of long term use of comfrey.

Home Remedies using Comfrey:

Benefits of Comfrey:

Comfrey has long been used for medicinal purposes.

In early Greek and Roman days, this herb was commonly used in medicine for many purposes such as to stop heavy bleeding from injury or surgery, to treat bronchial related problem, cough and sore throat and even to help heal wounds and broken bones.

It was a good, general herb that helped with many common ailments and conditions.

The root was often used as a mouth wash and gargle for sore throat and gum disease.

Today, this herb is only used in commercially prepared versions.

Comfrey leaves also contain other helpful nutrients such as B vitamins.

This is why it was often used in cooking as well as in supplement form.

Comfrey ointments are often applied to the surface of the skin to heal bruises as well as pulled muscles and ligaments, fractures, sprains, and strains.

Uses of Comfrey:

• A remedy for bruises, sprains, and dislocations
• Chest congestion
• To help heal after injury
• Use only commercially prepared ointments and creams

Side Effects of Comfrey:

Limit use of leaf-based Comfrey ointments to no more than 4 weeks.

Never use any form of Comfrey during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

If taken internally, there is the possibility that comfrey could potentially cause serious liver damage.