Comfrey

What is Comfrey?

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia. It is widely known for its healing properties and is one of the most widely used medicinal plants in the world. Comfrey has been described as a "natural panacea" because of its many uses. The plant is used both internally and externally to treat a wide variety of conditions, including broken bones, bruises, sprains, skin ailments, joint pain, stomach ulcers, diarrhea, and respiratory ailments.

Where is Comfrey generally used?

Comfrey is generally used to treat a wide variety of conditions such as joint pain, broken bones, bruises, sprains, skin ailments, stomach ulcers, and respiratory ailments. Comfrey is most commonly used externally as a poultice or salve, applied directly to the affected area. It can also be taken internally as a tea, a liquid extract, or in capsule or tablet form.

Where is Comfrey found?

Comfrey is found in Europe, Asia, and North America. The plant is known by several different names, such as common comfrey, blackwort, slippery root, and knitbone. It is widely available in natural health food stores and online in supplement form.

What are the health benefits of Comfrey?

• Supports healing of wounds, bruises, fractures, and sprains
• Reduces pain and inflammation
• Supports the healing of skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema
• May help to reduce symptoms of respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and coughs
• May improve gut health and aid in digestion
• May help to reduce fever
• May have anti-fungal properties

Interesting Facts about Comfrey

• Comfrey has been used in traditional herbal medicine since the time of the Ancient Greeks. 
• The plant has been called "knitbone" because of its ability to help heal broken bones and sprains. 
• Comfrey is a member of the borage family of plants, which also includes forget-me-nots and other flowering plants.

List of Other Similar Ingredients

• Arnica (Arnica montana)
• Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
• Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)
• St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
• Plantain (Plantago major)
• Red clover (Trifolium pratense)
• Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis)
• Calamus root (Acorus calamus)