So, the question; what is comfrey?
Comfrey is a perennial flowering herb that grows in many states across North America. It goes by other names such as; boneset, bruisewort, knitbone, and others. As you probably noticed, the names also identify the healing properties.
Some people consider it a weed because of how it spreads and how hard it is to get rid of once you have it. However, there are those of us that know the healing benefits it has and considers it a must as an herb in the field of home remedies or natural herbals.
Where Does Comfrey Come From?
Comfrey has been around since ancient Greece. It was claimed to have been used to aid wounded soldiers that fought for Alexander the Great.
What Does The Plant Look Like?
Comfrey has a root system that can go down as deep as 10ft. And because of depth, the root system brings up wonderful and essential elements such as -- magnesium, potassium, and phosphorous. These elements add greatly to your garden as the elements are stored in the leaves and when they die return to the earth and enrich the soil.
Where Do You Plant Comfrey?
Comfrey needs to be kept in a border unless you don't mind it spreading. Just remember once planted it is there to stay. The plant can grow up to 4ft tall and loves rich moist soil.
When Should You Harvest?
It is harvested in the Summer, so plant your seeds in the Spring or divide already established plants in the Fall.
Now that we've established what comfrey is, let's talk about how to use it.
First, there are those who think you should not take comfrey internally because of pyrrolizidine alkaloids which are found in the stalk and a smaller amount in the leaves. Studies have shown this to be toxic to the liver. However, some also say you would have to have a high amount for this to happen. I recommend doing your own research and make the best decision for you.
Top Ten Benefits of Comfrey
#1 Skin
"Softens Skin: There’s allantoin in comfrey extract. Allantoin is a moisturizer that creates a protective film over skin cells. That film helps to lock in moisture and prevent drying. It also helps your outermost layer of skin to shed more easily. Although this may sound a bit icky, it’s an important process (and so satisfying) to help your skin heal and remain healthy and glowing.Fights Inflammation: Allantoin is also an anti-inflammatory substance. It’s used in a few medical treatments to help with issues such as rashes and burns. This property makes using comfrey for acne a great idea. It helps stop that uncomfortable inflammation and reduces the intensity of acne!Antioxidant: The Rosmarinic acid in comfrey is an antioxidant. You probably already know that such substances are good for you but may not know why. For skincare, the main benefit is protection against harm from UV rays.Protect Against Environmental Harm: There are tannins in comfrey root. Fortunately, you don’t have to wait around while these tannins mellow! Instead, when you apply the extract, they will protect your skin from bacteria and toxins." -blume.com
There are soaps online you can buy which improve acne and restore the normal pH balance of the skin. Or you can make your own.
#2 Bruises - #3 Reduces Inflammation
"Comfrey has a long history of use as a topical agent for treating wounds, skin ulcers, thrombophlebitis, bruises, and sprains and strains. Comfrey has anti-inflammatory properties that may decrease bruising and help heal wounds when the herb is applied topically.
#4 Sprains
In a study of people with acute ankle sprains, topical application of an ointment four times a day containing a comfrey extract was at least as effective as, and possibly more effective than, a topically applied anti-inflammatory drug (diclofenac). The comfrey ointment was a proprietary product that contained 35% comfrey extract.
#5 Wounds - #6 Broken Bones - #7 Cuts
Comfrey is used in traditional medicine as a topical application to help...
