Comfrey // Meet Your Green Ally
The common name Comfrey descends from the Latin “confirmare”, to join together and refers to one of the most effective herbal allies we have. Another common name is Knitbone, and clues us into one of the uses of this herb.
Renowned for its ability to repair trauma at the cellular level, using comfrey can speed and ensure the healing of any injury, even broken bones. Comfrey is so prolific at cell regeneration that it is not to be used on deep puncture wounds, as it may heal over the top before the deeper tissue is healed, creating a trapped infection. For scrapes, bruises, stubborn surgery wounds or scars, Comfrey is your ally.
A mucilaginous herb, Comfrey is excellent for healing the lungs and soothing internal bleeding and digestive inflammation. I use the leaves internally and externally, and the root externally only.
Comfrey leaf or root poultices/compresses are excellent remedies for external injuries. I have used Comfrey leaf infusion when in the miserable first few days of a major back injury to help alleviate pain and speed recovery. Comfrey is gentle and the dried leaf can be made into a Nourishing Herbal Infusion to encourage wholeness in any of our fractured parts. Comfrey can be infused into oil and made into a balm for arthritic joints or injuries. The oil will be wonderfully rejuvenating for dry skin and can soften and plump the skin by increasing collagen production. Tincture of Comfrey should only be used externally, as tincturing into alcohol concentrates the alkaloids of a plant. Alkaloids can be harmful to the liver if ingested in too great a quantity or concentration.
Easy to grow, Comfrey makes a wonderful garden herb and is a plant you can put in a shady spot where other plants may not thrive. Comfrey has been used for centuries as a medicinal remedy. If you want to heal trauma, old injuries, brittle skin, hair, or nails, consider Comfrey as an herbal ally.
In Love,
Susan Marie
P.S. Comfrey is a controversial herb, and due to the trace amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in it, especially in the root, some countries have banned it from being sold for internal use. However, many herbalists have contested this ban, saying that the studies are skewed and touting their years of experience using Comfrey internally with no ill effects as proof that it is not, indeed, a harmful herb. Use your own discretion when using Comfrey.
This article is intended for educational purposes only. The information provided here should not replace the advice of a licensed medical professional of your choice. Any effects of herbs or foods used by the reader are their responsibility entirely. Use your own discretion and do your research.