Botanical name of comfrey: Symphytum officinale L.
Plant family: Borage family (Boraginaceae)
Main botanical characteristics: Perennial, over 1m tall, thick, branched black root (white inside), upright, 4-edged, rough-hairy stem with drooping, lanceolate, bristly leaves, bell-shaped flowers hanging on short stems, dense grape-shaped inflorescences with reddish-violet or yellowish-white color.
Comfrey flowering time: May-August, root harvest in spring or autumn
Plant parts used: Root (Radix Symphyti), (Herb (Herba symphytum)
Ingredients: Silica, mucilage, allantoin, tannins, choline, minerals, pyrrolizidine alkaloids
Effect: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, promotes callus formation (bone fractures), reduces swelling. Choline: promotes hematoma resorption, promotes circulation. Allantoin: promotes wound healing, promotes granulation, liquefies wound secretions, cleanses wounds, soothes local irritations.
Indications: Bruises, strains, sprains, sore muscles, broken bones, hematomas, swelling, lymph node swelling, inflammation of the tendon, tendon sheaths, bursa, osteoarthritis, joint pain, wounds (poorly healing), leg ulcers
Contraindication: Due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids, use only in small doses. Pregnancy.
Preparation and dosage form of comfrey:
- Decoction (1 cup once a day)
- Tincture (1-2 times/daily 10-15 drops)
- Homeopathic (D6, 3-5 times/daily)
- Root pulp applications, wraps, compresses, creams, ointments, gels, oils to rub in several times a day.
