Bulk Herbs: Comfrey Root, OrganicSymphytum officinale Size: 1 oz package Format: CutPlant Part: RootFarming: Organic Also known as: Symphytum officinale, Bruisewort, Knitback, Knitbone, Boneset, Slippery Root, Bruisewort, Ass Ear, and Blackwort. Origin: USA A member of the Borage (Boraginaceae) family, comfrey's relatives include both borage (Borago sp.) and heliotrope (Heliotropium sp.). The Symphytum genus contains about 35 species, all of which can be used interchangeably. However, pyrrolizidine alkaloid content varies between species and is highest in Russian comfrey (S. x uplandicum) and prickly comfrey (S. asperum). Comfrey has large, rough, hairy, lance-shaped leaves and whitish, pink, or purple flower spikes with a slight heliotrope-like curl typical of this family. It is native to much of Europe, and various regions in Asia, such as the Caucasus, Kazakhstan, Siberia, and Turkey, and is commonly found as a weed in temperate northern latitudes. Comfrey leaf has been used for thousands of years, dating back to Roman times. This herb has been used in folk medicine and magick throughout Europe and North America and is widely cultivated. Much debate surrounds the safety of comfrey because various parts and preparations contain potentially toxic alkaloids. It is important to understand that the part used, species, and time of harvest all come into play when determining the safety of this herb. Active Compounds: Mucilage, allantoin, tannins, B12, Vit C, Vit E, inulin, steroidal saponins Actions: Anti-inflammatory, Vulnerary, Analgesic, Demulcent, Cell Proliferant Indications: Historically, comfrey was utilized for internal applications; however, contemporary research has illuminated the potential cancer risks associated with such use, primarily linked to its cell proliferation characteristics. Currently, comfrey is deemed safe for external application as an oil or ointment on the skin. The external-use formulations presented here are aligned with these safety guidelines. For any internal use, it is essential to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional or herbalist. Precautions: Comfrey contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which are associated with significant liver toxicity. IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED TO CONSUME COMFREY INTERNALLY! The U.S. FDA has advised that all comfrey products intended for oral use be withdrawn from the market due to serious safety issues. Herbal Magick: Comfrey, famously known as "knitbone," is a potent magickal herb used for protection, healing, and prosperity. Associated with Saturn and the Earth element, it is favored in folklore for safe travel, binding commitments, and bringing stability to households. It is typically used in mojo bags or as a topical oil, and is sometimes used to deter theft. The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated this information. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; it is for educational purposes only.
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