Comfrey

Comfrey has long been used for medicine in different traditions from Europe to Asia. It contains the good allantoin and the toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Allantoin is the property that increases cell growth and thus decreases healing time. It also contains nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium which make it a good fertilizer. All parts of the plant can be used. Common names for the plant include: Komprey (Philippines), Schwarzwurz (Germany) and Conswelda (Spain).

This deep green perennial has large, lance-shaped leaves about 10 inches long, which are covered with fine hairs that can irritate the skin. Depending on the variety, Comfrey can grow about three feet tall and wide as the roots like to spread. The small lavender-blue bell-shaped flowers are about ½ inch in size and grow on a spike.

Comfrey usually blooms in May. It grows best in temperate climates.

Traditional Cultural and Medicinal Usages

• Comfrey has been used in the healing of fractures and broken bones, as well as in the rejuvenation of skin
• Note: Comfrey should not be taken orally or used on open wounds