Comfrey

Symphytum officinale

Evidence: CFamily: Boraginaceae

Pregnancy:AvoidNursing:AvoidChildren:Avoid

TOPICAL USE ONLY. Traditionally used as a poultice for muscle and joint comfort. Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids — internal use is dangerous.

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Safety Quick Reference

Pregnancyunsafe

Breastfeedingunsafe

Pediatricnot recommended

Contraindications: NEVER take internally. Do not apply to broken skin. Liver disease. Limit topical use to 4-6 weeks per year.

Interactions: Avoid with hepatotoxic drugs. Topical use has minimal systemic absorption.

Drug & Medication Interactions

If you take any medications, review these interactions carefully.

Known Interactions

Avoid with hepatotoxic drugs. Topical use has minimal systemic absorption.

Contraindications

NEVER take internally. Do not apply to broken skin. Liver disease. Limit topical use to 4-6 weeks per year.

Check Your Medications Against This Herb

Side Effects

Topical: generally safe for intact skin. Internal: SEVERE liver damage (veno-occlusive disease), carcinogenic.

How to Prepare Comfrey

Herbal Salve / OintmentModerate · 2-4 hours (including infusion time)

Equipment

Double boiler or slow cooker, Herb-infused oil (or make your own), Beeswax, Small tins or jars, Strainer/cheesecloth, Measuring cup

Instructions

1START WITH INFUSED OIL: Place 1 cup dried herb in a jar, cover with 2 cups olive oil. Infuse for 2-4 weeks (or use the quick method: slow cooker on warm for 4-8 hours).
2Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth, squeezing thoroughly.
3In a double boiler, gently heat 1 cup of infused oil.
4Add 1 oz (about 2 tablespoons) of beeswax pellets per cup of oil. Stir until fully melted.
5Test consistency: dip a spoon in, let it cool 1 minute. Adjust — more wax = firmer, more oil = softer.
6Optionally add 10-15 drops of essential oil (Lavender, Tea Tree) once slightly cooled.
7Pour into tins or jars immediately. Let cool completely before capping (2-3 hours).
8Apply externally to affected area as needed.

Tips

• Olive oil is the traditional choice, but coconut oil or jojoba oil also work well.
• For a softer balm, use less beeswax. For a lip balm consistency, use more.
• Calendula, Comfrey (leaf only), and Arnica make excellent healing salves.

FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Do not apply to deep wounds or broken skin unless the herb is specifically indicated for this. Patch test on a small area first.

Store in a cool, dark place. Properly made salves last 1-2 years.

Poultice (Topical Compress)Easy · 10-20 minutes

Equipment

Fresh or dried herbs, Clean cloth or gauze, Hot water, Bowl

Instructions

1FOR FRESH HERBS: Chop or mash fresh plant material. Apply directly to the skin, cover with a clean cloth.
2FOR DRIED HERBS: Mix dried, powdered herb with enough hot water to form a thick paste.
3Spread the paste onto a clean cloth or gauze, about 1/4 inch thick.
4Apply the herb side against the skin. Cover with another clean cloth to hold in place.
5Leave on for 20-30 minutes, or until cooled. Reapply as needed.
6For a warm poultice, wrap a hot water bottle or warm towel over the cloth.

Tips

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The information on Healix Natural Solutions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a licensed healthcare provider.

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