Uncovering the Medicinal Magic of Comfrey

You might be wondering what is comfrey since it is not a commonly used word. Comfrey refers to an herb that has a host of medicinal uses. It belongs to the family Boraginaceae comprising a black root and large leaves that bear small bell shaped flowers in different colors including cream, white, pink or purple. It is a native of Europe and grows abundantly in grassy and damp places. It is wide spread all over the British Isles. The herb has been recognized by herbalists as well as organic gardeners for its versatility and usefulness. It constitutes vitamin B12, steroidal saponins, mucilage, tannins, inulin, pyrrolizidine alkaloids and proteins. It also comprises 18 amino acids. The herb is also a good source of vitamin C, protein, A and B12, and it comprises other B-complex vitamins. The herb is rich in fiber as well as minerals including potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, sulphur, magnesium, zinc, copper, germanium and selenium. Keep reading to discover what comfrey can do for you.

So you now know a bit more about what comfrey is but what can it do for you? Comfrey has a host of therapeutic benefits for you. It has a wide array of medicinal benefits that are both internal as well as external. Its actions are anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, astringent, anodyne, expectorant, demulcent, expels mucous, haemostatic, emollient, refrigerant, proliferant, vulnerary and mild sedative. Modern science has confirmed the role of the herb in treating bone ailments. Comfrey has been used since the 16th century for treating broken bones. It is therefore also known as "knitbone." The herb contains allantoin that helps in speeding up the natural replacement of the cells of your body. Allantoin has good healing properties and is absorbed very fast into your skin.

Comfrey has also been widely in use to treat the following ailments severe burns, gastric, arthritis, acne, varicose ulcers, and a host of skin conditions. Plus it is known to have teeth and bone building properties for children. Furthermore, it is also known to be effective in treating a number of female disorders.

Comfrey is used for lung troubles as well as for whooping cough and for quinsy. The root of the plant is much more effective than the leaves. The herb is highly recommended for consumption of the lungs, pulmonary complaints, as well as bleeding of the lungs. The leaves of the plant are valuable for external treatment as well.

The herb should not be taken internally. Many health regulatory agencies in the world have altogether banned the use of comfrey. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are found in the herb are known to be harmful causing liver toxicity. The herb is mainly used for external use only because of the internal complications. Many manufacturers that make an external cream with comfrey are removing the pyrrolizidine alkaloids from the herb.

Although internal use of the herb is dangerous, the medical benefits of it externally as you can see are extensive. You might now just be hearing about what comfrey is but it is something to look into for you. You should always consult with your physician before trying such as comfrey.