Symphytum officinale
Large-leaved perennial with bristly hairs and clusters of purple-pink bell-shaped flowers.
Origin: Europe and Western Asia
Growing Notes: Part shade to full sun, moist rich soil, spreads readily by root — hard to remove once established.
Historically used topically to support minor skin comfort; internal use is a matter of real safety concern (see Safety Notes).
For topical use only: infuse dried leaf in oil to make a salve base, or apply a poultice of crushed fresh leaf to unbroken skin.
Dosage: Topical only. Do not ingest. Limit topical use to short periods (days, not weeks) on unbroken skin.
Do not take internally. Comfrey contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), and the FDA advised in 2001 that comfrey supplements intended for internal use be removed from the market following documented cases of liver damage, including hepatic veno-occlusive disease, from oral use. Even topical use should be limited to unbroken, intact skin for short periods — PAs can be absorbed through skin, especially broken skin — and avoided entirely during pregnancy, while nursing, and in children. This herb is included here for reference and identification purposes; Teapotheca does not recommend internal use under any circumstances.
This is educational information, not medical advice. See our full Disclaimer before use.