Comfrey Root
Comfrey root is a traditional topical herb used for tissue support in sprains, strains, and superficial skin irritation. The root contains compounds that can support healing feel, but comfrey also contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) that can be toxic to the liver if ingested. For safety, comfrey is a topical-only herb in most modern herbal practice.
Key Benefits
- Topical support for bruises, sprains, and strains (traditional use)
- May support comfort in superficial skin irritation when used topically
- Often used in salves for short-term, localized tissue support
Common Issues It May Help With
- Sprains and strains (topical support)
- Bruises (topical support)
- Minor skin irritation (topical support)
How To Use (Simple)
- TOPICAL ONLY: use comfrey salves, ointments, or poultices on intact skin for short periods. Avoid applying to deep wounds or punctures (can cause skin to close too quickly). Limit duration and area of use.
Taste / Notes
Not intended to be tasted (avoid internal use).
Evidence Level
Some clinical evidence supports topical comfrey preparations for certain pain and sprain patterns; internal use is discouraged due to well-known liver risk.
Cautions
HIGH CAUTION: Do NOT ingest comfrey. Avoid use on broken skin, deep wounds, or for long-term daily application. Avoid in pregnancy/breastfeeding. Avoid if you have liver disease. Choose products that specify PA-free where possible, but topical-only remains the safest stance.
Interactions
Avoid combining with other hepatotoxic substances if there is any risk of systemic exposure (large areas, long duration) No meaningful drug interactions with short-term topical use on intact skin If using alongside topical steroids/NSAIDs, alternate applications to reduce irritation risk
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