Comfrey

Identity

Common Name

Comfrey

Scientific Name

Symphytum officinale

Botanical Family

Boraginaceae

Native Region

Europe and western Asia

Cultivation Regions

Europe, Asia, North America

Plant Parts Used

Leaves, Root (topical mainly)

Synonyms

Knit-Bone, Boneset, Bruisewort

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A large coarse perennial with broad lance-shaped hairy dark green leaves on winged stems and drooping clusters of small tubular bell-shaped flowers that are purple-blue to pinkish-cream; the leaves and roots are the part used.

Historical Background

Comfrey ('knit-bone') has been a revered European folk wound and skin herb for millennia, its large leaves and roots applied traditionally to bruises and sprains. Internal use is now restricted in many countries due to liver-harming pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), so it is best limited to short-term topical use.

Earliest recorded uses: European folk traditions for millennia; a classic 'knit-bone' wound and skin herb.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Mild, slightly cucumber-like, green, earthy

Tea Information

Research Summary

Comfrey has a long tradition as a wound and skin herb, but its pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) can cause serious liver injury, so oral/internal use is restricted in many countries. It is not a treatment for wounds, sprains, or any condition; restrict to short-term topical use on intact skin and consult a clinician.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources