Comfrey is not a newly discovered medicinal plant. It has been known in folk medicine for centuries. Hildegard von Bingen already appreciated its healing properties… But how exactly does this plant work and how and what is it used for?

One plant and many names that indicate its powers

Comfrey is also known under the names Comfrey, Healing Root and Wound Damage, among others. All these names refer to its potency on the organism. It was also often referred to as a soldier's root, as it was used in wars to treat wounds.

How does comfrey work?

The substance allantoin is said to be the main active ingredient in comfrey. In addition, there are mucilage and rosmarinic acid, which are considered to be extremely effective. In summary, comfrey has an analgesic, soothing, disinfecting, blood circulation-enhancing, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effect.

Internal use is not recommended

But be careful: comfrey should not be used internally. It contains so-called pyrrolizidine alkaloids. These alkaloids are toxic in high doses and damage the liver, among other things.

Areas of application of medicinal plants

Comfrey can be used for a variety of purposes. It is suitable for relieving the following physical ailments, for example:

  • purulent wounds such as abscesses
  • poorly healing injuries
  • joint pain
  • broken bones
  • bruises
  • sprains
  • rheumatism
  • arthrosis
  • muscle pain

How to apply comfrey?

Comfrey can be used both fresh and dried. In general, the fresh form is preferable, as the drying process causes the ingredients to evaporate. Furthermore, the root is preferable to the stems and leaves. The reason: the active ingredients are present in higher quantities in the root.

Comfrey is traditionally used as a decoction, tincture, poultice, ointment or mouthwash. You can make these products yourself at home. A brew or envelope is quickly made. Here are instructions for a decoction that you can also use as a mouthwash (if you have problems with your teeth).

  • Boil 100 g dried comfrey root or 300 g fresh root with 1 liter of hot water
  • alternatively: use 50 g dried comfrey leaves or 250 g fresh leaves
  • Cover and leave the brew to stand for 20 minutes
  • Remove root pieces from the broth
  • let it cool down and you're done!

tips and tricks

In addition to its healing powers on the body, comfrey has a satisfactory effect when it comes into contact with garden plants. Used as manure, it strengthens plants and protects them from diseases.

KKF

Category:

Herbs