Organic Comfrey Root (Symphytum officinale)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Comfrey Root (Symphytum officinale)

Botanical Name: Symphytum officinale
Family: Boraginaceae
Common Names: Knitbone, Boneset, Slippery Root
Origin: Native to Europe and Asia, now found in temperate regions worldwide.

Parts Used

• Root (Rhizome)

Botanical Description

Comfrey is a hardy perennial herb with large, rough, hairy leaves and bell-shaped flowers that can be white, purple, or pink. The root is thick, black on the outside, and white and fleshy inside.

Habitat and Growing Conditions

Comfrey thrives in moist, fertile soils and prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun. It is commonly found in damp meadows, riverbanks, and ditches. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.

Constituents

• Allantoin (promotes cell regeneration)
• Mucilage
• Tannins
• Rosmarinic acid
• Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs)

Energetics and Taste

• Energetics: Cooling, moistening
• Taste: Astringent, slightly bitter

Medicinal Actions

• Vulnerary (wound healing)
• Demulcent
• Anti-inflammatory
• Astringent
• Analgesic
• Emollient

System Affinities

• Musculoskeletal system
• Skin
• Respiratory system

Uses

Comfrey root is traditionally used topically to promote the healing of wounds, fractures, sprains, strains, and bruises. It is valued for its ability to stimulate tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation. The root can be used in salves, poultices, and compresses for external application.

Cautions

Comfrey root contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which are toxic to the liver if taken internally. Due to the risk of hepatotoxicity, internal use of comfrey root is not recommended, especially in large doses or for extended periods. Topical use is generally considered safe when applied to unbroken skin, but care should be taken not to apply it to deep wounds or broken skin.

Scientific Studies

1. A study published in Phytotherapy Research highlighted comfrey's efficacy in reducing pain and inflammation in acute ankle sprains when used as a topical ointment .
2. Another study found that a comfrey root extract gel was effective in treating back pain, showing significant improvement in pain and mobility .
3. Research in Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology demonstrated that comfrey root preparations could accelerate the healing of fractures and reduce associated pain.