COMFREY Symphytum officinale
Liquid extract of fresh root (pyrrolizidine alkaloids removed).
- Actions: Superb wound healer and cell-proliferant (vulnerary); anti-inflammatory. Demulcent
and mildly astringent; expectorant.
- Uses: Used internally and topically to heal cuts, abrasions, burns, ulcerations, bruises, broken
bones, and strained ligaments and tendons (use internally and topically). Chronic
inflammation, passive bleeding and excessive mucous discharge of gastrointestinal, urinary
and respiratory tracts. Gastric and duodenal ulcers; colitis. Coughs (esp. dry unproductive
type).
- Dose: Take 30 to 60 drops, 2 to 5 times per day. Topically apply full-strength (if well
tolerated), or dilute with 2 or 3 parts water.
- Cautions: Avoid Comfrey preparations containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Take care on deep
cuts or puncture wounds not to heal top of wound before inside of wound.