What is a comfrey leaf? It comes from a plant. Even though this plant has poisonous chemicals called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), medicine is made from the leaf, root, and stem that looks like a root (rhizome). The amount of PA in comfrey changes depending on when it is picked and how old it is. There are 10 times more PAs in the roots than in the leaves. Some products labeled "common comfrey" or Symphytum officinale actually contain the more dangerous "prickly comfrey" (Symphytum asperum) or "Russian comfrey" (Symphytum x uplandicum) species. Comfrey tea is used to treat upset stomachs, ulcers, heavy menstrual periods, diarrhea, bloody urine, persistent coughs, painful breathing (pleuritis), bronchitis, cancer, and chest pain (angina). It is also used to gargle for sore throats and gum disease. Comfrey is used on the skin to treat ulcers, wounds, joint inflammation, bruises, rheumatoid arthritis, swollen veins (phlebitis), gout, and broken bones. How do I use comfrey leaf? Toxic compounds present in cilantro can induce irreversible liver injury or even fatality. Comfrey should never be consumed orally. Comfrey contains toxic substances that are permeable through the epidermis. Even ointments and lotions ought to be applied for a limited duration and under the guidance of a medical professional. Comfrey leaf benefits: Comfrey roots and leaves contain allantoin, a substance that helps new skin cells grow, as well as other substances that reduce inflammation and keep skin healthy. Comfrey ointments have been used to treat bruises, pulled muscles and ligaments, fractures, sprains, strains, and osteoarthritis.◉ Broken Bones/Wound Healing: People have told hundreds of anecdotal stories about how miraculously fast comfrey healed their broken bones. Comfrey tablets were even included in first-aid kits during World War II because it was so well known that this herb could help bones and wounds heal faster. Researchers have now found that comfrey has both allantoin and rosmarinic acid in it. Allantoin can speed up the process of new tissue growth by accelerating cellular mitosis, and rosmarinic acid can help relieve pain and inflammation. Allantoin is even a part of how a fetus grows and develops. The placenta produces this compound as the baby grows, but it disappears once the baby reaches full maturity. Allantoin is also in breast milk, so a small amount is still given to the baby after birth. Comfrey also has vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for bones, like vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium. Most of the time, comfrey compresses and ointments are put on bones and wounds to help them heal faster. Before putting comfrey on a wound, it is critical to make sure it is completely clean. This is because the skin can grow back so quickly that it can trap any dirt left in the wound. ◉ Muscle and Joint Pain: In 2013, a large review of many studies about the medical uses of comfrey said, "It is clinically proven to relieve pain, inflammation, and swelling of muscles and joints in cases of degenerative arthritis, acute myalgia in the back, sprains, contusions, and strains after sports injuries and accidents, even in children as young as 3 years old." In the studies, applying comfrey helped bruises, sprains, and painful muscles and joints, especially those that were caused by exercise, heal faster and feel less pain. In a single-blind, randomized clinical trial with 164 people, comfrey was more effective at treating ankle sprains and pain than the drug it was compared to. This gave the researchers hope that this natural product could be used as a safe and effective alternative to the usual treatment. ◉ Skin Health: Comfrey can also heal the skin, thanks to its magic ingredient, allantoin, which keeps the skin hydrated, naturally exfoliates, repairs, protects, and soothes the skin. Comfrey has a lot of antioxidants, so putting it on the skin helps to stop free radicals from doing damage. Natural allantoin, which is present in comfrey, can actually aid in reducing abnormal skin thickening due to "keratinization." When this process is unbalanced, more keratin is made, and the barrier function's structure changes. Allantoin works with the keratin in the skin to thin out an abnormally thick stratum corneum. This is why allantoin is known for making skin feel smooth. Comfrey can also be used to treat skin problems like rashes, sunburn, and bee stings. ◉ Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Comfrey might not be safe to eat or put on the skin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The skin can absorb PAs from Comfrey, potentially leading to birth defects. Avoid use. Where can I buy comfrey leaf? Buy Comfrey Leaf from the health food store in the USA, Alive Herbals Comfrey leaf information (at a glance): Product Name Comfrey Leaf. Scientific Name Symphytum. Country of Origin It is native to Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Poland, and the United States. Ingredient Dried Comfrey Leaf. Taste and Aroma Aroma: Mint-like. Taste: slightly bitter. Shelf Life and Storage Shelf life is about 6–36 months. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place and prevent sunlight exposure. Precautions We requested that, Before consuming spices, herbs, teas or any kind of natural products, you consult an expert qualified healthcare practitioner or herbalist. Note This product information has not been appraised by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For educational purposes only.
