Comfrey Root
Comfrey Root is a commonly used herbal medicine with a long and proven history in the treatment of various complaints. The root and the leaves are used, the root being more active, and they can be taken internally or used externally as a poultice. Comfrey is especially useful in addressing the external ailments of cuts, bruises, sprains, sores, eczema, varicose veins, broken bones etc, internally it is used ito address a wide range of pulmonary complaints, internal bleeding etc. The plant contains a substance called ‘allantoin’, a cell proliferant that speeds up the healing process. This substance is now synthesized in the pharmaceutical industry and used in healing creams. Some caution is advised, however, especially in the internal use of the herb. External applications and internally taken teas or tinctures of the leaves are considered to be completely safe, but internal applications of tablets or capsules are felt to have too many drawbacks for safe usage.
Preparation
Use 2-5 grams (1-2 teaspoons) per serve. Brew in a pot of boiled water for ten minutes, strain and pour. Add sweetener as needed.
Specifications for Comfrey Root
Botanical Name |
Symphytum officinalis |
Other Names |
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Organic Status |
Australian Certified Organic before repackaging |
Country of Origin |
Croatia |
Plant Part |
Root |
Packaging |
Home Compostable Reusable Ziplock Satchel |
Precautions |
This plant contains small quantities of a toxic alkaloid which can have a cumulative effect upon the liver. Largest concentrations are found in the roots, leaves contain higher quantities of the alkaloid as they grow older and young leaves contain almost none. Most people would have to consume very large quantities of the plant in order to do any harm, though anyone with liver problems should obviously be more cautious. In general, the health-promoting properties of the plant probably far outweigh any possible disbenefits, especially if only the younger leaves are used. Use topically on unbroken skin. May cause loss of appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting. Do not use with Eucalyptus. Do not combine with herbs containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids (e.g. agrimony, alpine ragwort, help, tansy ragwort) |
Vegan Friendly