First, make the comfrey root tincture by combining the dried comfrey root and alcohol in a sterilized, dry, glass pint jar. Journal of chiropractic medicine, 10(3), 147-156. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2011.01.003, Stam, C., Bonnet, M. S., & van Haselen, R. A. Set aside cup for the cream recipe and store the rest in a glass jar. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. The chemicals contained in comfrey may cause birth defects. 1 Since at least the 4 th century, people have used comfrey medicinally. You should never ingest comfrey by mouth. Since these toxic substances can be absorbed through the skin, there's concern about the safety of comfrey cream applied topically. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Koll, R., Buhr, M., Dieter, R., Pabst, H., Predel, H. G., Petrowicz, O., Giannetti, B., Klingenburg, S., and Staiger, C. Efficacy and tolerance of a comfrey root extract (Extr. Wien Med Wochenschr. Proliferative and antioxidant activity of Symphytum officinale root extract. Molecules. Efficacy and tolerance of a comfrey root extract (Extr. The leaves and stems of comfrey contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause toxic damage if ingested in excess (Ulbricht, 2010). This perennial can grow up to 4-feet tall. Jedlinszki, N., Balzs, B., Csnyi, E., & Csupor, D. (2017). Many have said that it has helped them with a variety of aches and pains! Many of those following the folk use of comfrey up to present-day think so. The recipe makes about 5 cups of whipped creamy lotion. Children, who suffer from these injuries the most, are statistically unlikely to have adverse reactions to comfrey oil when used on scrapes.5, When comfrey was applied topically to animals above where theyd suffered bone fractures, their bones healed at a much-improved rate than animals who hadnt been treated with comfrey.6, Leg ulcers are uncomfortable, prone to infection, and can take a long time to heal. Roeder E. Medicinal plants in Europe containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Many of those following the folk use of comfrey up to present-day think so. As we are constantly reviewing and developing our products to meet our consumer needs, consumers, particularly those that suffer from allergies and intolerances, should always check product labelling, warnings, and directions provided with the product that is delivered, prior to use or consumption. Wien.Med.Wochenschr. Knit bone, Eucalyptus, Rapeseed Oil, BHA. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements. Pour into bowl /jug big enough for all ingredients and safe for the mixer. However, people with knee pain may be glad to try a topical preparation that could help in addition to any other recommendations made by their physician. Vithayathil MK, Edwards M. Comfrey herbal remedy causing second-degree heart block: do not be outfoxed by digitalis. Phytomedicine. 12 drops black pepper (Piper nigrum) essential oil Add comfy to Vaseline . It contains chemicals that are poisonous. What alternatives to comfrey cream are there for back pain? Of course, more research is needed to validate efficacy and safety. This could change the effects and side effects of comfrey. For External Use only Do not use if you are sensitive to any of the ingredients. If you choose to use comfrey, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. We cover all you need to know in this article. As we are constantly reviewing and developing our products to meet our consumer needs, consumers, particularly those that suffer from allergies and intolerances, should always check product labelling, warnings, and directions provided with the product that is delivered, prior to use or consumption. Essential oils are a whole new world in themselves & the benefits of using them are widespread. 4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars (225) $19.95 $ 19. Liver injury from herbal and dietary supplements. Medicine makers would bind comfrey leaves and roots in poultices, then apply those poultices to the skin to treat injuries. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. Save the remaining liquid alcohol portion. The ointment has a very mild herbal fragrance and is soothing on application. Wien.Med Wochenschr. Tunon, H., Olavsdotter, C., and Bohlin, L. Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of some Swedish medicinal plants. Thus, it is not advised to ingest herbal preparations of comfrey unless guided by an expert pharmacologist and physician. Version: 5.01. View abstract. After eight days, the group that used the cream had significantly less pain than those who had the placebo. View abstract. Amendments to the poison list. Registered VAT no. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. This leads to cirrhosis and eventually liver failure. Registered in England: company no. Company number 02758955 Registered VAT number 211727395. Eucalyptus oil is used externally to stimulate blood flow. Efficacy and safety of topically applied Symphytum herb extract cream in the treatment of ankle distortion: Results of a randomized controlled clinical double-blind study. 12 drops peppermint (Mentha piperita) essential oil (2004). Comfrey cream, an topical herbal product, is thought to reduce inflammation and pain when applied to the skin. The most common over-the-counter medication that can be toxic to the liver is acetaminophen (Tylenol). You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. hollandandbarrett.com is a trading name of Holland & Barrett Retail Limited,. Browse our Sports Hub, Buy 1 get 1 Half Price on Vitamins & Supplements, Buy 1 get 1 Half Price gut health supplements, Contains Comfrey known for its healing properties, Symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises. J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. Staiger, C. Comfrey root: from tradition to modern clinical trials. Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. The Effect of Comfrey on Enoxaparin-Induced Bruise in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Randomised Clinical Trial. 2007;57(11):712-716. Undergoingmassage or taking up yoga may help alleviate pain and help people with back or joint problems function more easily. 20 Rewards for Life points with this purchase, Potters Herbals Comfrey Ointment is a traditional herbal medicinal product used for the symptomatic relief of minor sprains and bruises, based on traditional use only. Be sure to use comfrey root from a reputable source that has properly identified the species. cup organic, unrefined cocoa butter View abstract. Comfrey has also been used for the following conditions: There is currently not enough evidence to recommend comfrey cream for any of these uses. Sowa I, Paduch R, Strzemski M, et al. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements. Comfrey is a fast-growing plant whose leaves and roots have been used historically for wound healing and other conditions. 2758955. Researchers have found it does seem to reduce pain in some conditions, including back pain, osteoarthritis, and ankle sprains. Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. BMJ Case Rep. 2016. (2013). Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice. With extract of Comfrey. It is easily absorbed to leave your skin feeling fresh, soft and radiant. Heard about essential oils but not quite sure about what they can do for you? Complement Ther Med. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Effects of Symphytum ointment on muscular symptoms and functional locomotor disturbances. Comfrey might harm the liver. The following applications have been used in research: Using large amounts of comfrey cream or using it for extended periods of time increases the risk of side effects like liver toxicity. Rad. View abstract. Book your free, one-to-one online consultation with one of our qualified advisors. In Western Europe, comfrey has been used topically for treating inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, gout, and thrombophlebitis, and internally for treating diarrhea. What is niacinamide? (2018). Discard after a year or according to labeling. Megan Nunn, PharmD, is a community pharmacist in Tennessee with twelve years of experience in medication counseling and immunization. Our Two Pennies Worth. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. Fitoterapia. Medicine makers would bind comfrey leaves and roots in poultices, then apply those poultices to the skin to treat injuries. View abstract. J Hepatol 2003;39:437-46. Acupuncture has also shown solid evidence of benefit for back pain. View abstract. WMW Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift, 154(21), 498-507. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10354-004-0114-8, Natural Medicines (2020). Jedlinszki N, Balzs B, Csnyi E, Csupor D. Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. Inhibition of prostaglandin biosynthesis and PAF-induced exocytosis. It has bell-shaped red-violet or yellowish flowers. View abstract. Be sure to choose organic carrier oils and essential oils when possible. As a Licensed Massage Therapist for fifteen years, I have noticed that back pain can be caused by a variety of reasons and can be very debilitating. Complementary Health Approaches for Chronic Pain: What the Science Says. Adv Ther 2005;22(6):681-692. Our associates are qualified to advise, visit us online or in store for unparalleled advice. This is the tincture. D'Anchise, R., Bulitta, M., and Giannetti, B. Comfrey extract ointment in comparison to diclofenac gel in the treatment of acute unilateral ankle sprains (distortions). (2001). They help us to understand how people use the website and give us the ability to provide targeted marketing to you. This is done by soaking the root in at least 50% alcohol for a minimum of two weeks. J Chiropr Med. An ankle sprain can come out of nowhere and cause a lot of pain, limitations, and regret until it is healed. Comfrey contains toxic substances that cause liver damage, cancer, and death. Shop buy 1 get 1 half price on all gut health products, Buy 1 get 1 Half Price | Plus an extra 20% off 25, App Exclusive | Get an extra 22% off 25 when you spend on the H&B App, Royal Mail strikes may cause a delay to our click and collect service, Looking for fitness advice & inspiration this New Year? In Western Europe, comfrey has been used topically for treating inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, gout, and thrombophlebitis, and internally for treating diarrhea. As the consistency thickens some more, turn the mixer up a little bit more. Comfrey ( Symphytum officinale) is an attractive ornamental plant used in gardening and medicine. For that reason, Ive also included my go-to comfrey cream recipe for achy joints and muscles! Poisons Legislation Circular 3-22-1993;60. reduce lower back pain (Stam et al., 2001). Vickers AJ, Vertosick EA, Lewith G, et al. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Electric bowl mixer (like a KitchenAid) or a blender 1. Using it no more than four to six weeks a year as a general guideline would be best. The Comfrey Ointment that I have been using is to be used only for sprains and bruises. Efficacy of a comfrey root (Symphyti offic. Some of these components are thought to speed up wound healing by stimulating new cell growth. J Ethnopharmacol 1995;48(2):61-76. J Pain. Mix for about 10 minutes, until nice and whipped. Preclinical studies suggest that oral comfrey has antiproliferative effects , and a topical formulation showed wound healing properties . These side effects may be common or severe. It's typically only used in small amounts for a very short period. The Herbal Academy neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. (Grube et al., 2007). View abstract. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. View abstract. Barthomeuf, C. M., Debiton, E., Barbakadze, V. V., and Kemertelidze, E. P. Evaluation of the dietetic and therapeutic potential of a high molecular weight hydroxycinnamate-derived polymer from Symphytum asperum Lepech. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. After the consistency begins to thicken, turn the mixer up a little bit. To make the cream, combine sunflower oil, safflower oil, coconut oil, and cocoa butter in a double-boiler over low heat until completely melted. Ulbricht, C. (2010). To Use. Can comfrey be used for cracked nipples during breastfeeding? CBD oils being bought in high street stores such as Boots and Holland & Barrett are weak, low quality and don't provide the actual therapeutic advantages. When buying commercial brands, seek those that have had the pyrrolizidine alkaloids removed, if possible. Efficacy and safety of comfrey root extract ointment in the treatment of acute upper or lower back pain: Results of a double-blind, randomised, placebo controlled, multicentre trial. Studies in humans are very limited. However, it did not affect markers of inflammation or cartilage breakdown over 12 weeks of treatment. At least three human studies found that the topical use of a cream containing comfrey root extract may safely help with pain, swelling, and mobility symptoms associated with an ankle sprain. Efficacy of a comfrey root (Symphyti offic. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Additionally, there is scientific research demonstrating comfreys effectiveness at soothing muscle and joint pain, some of which are highlighted in this post. Make sure to always buy comfrey (Symphytum officianale) root and leaf from a trusted source. Comfrey is an herb in the Boraginaceae family and has small purple flowers. Modern science suggests that the ancients were correct in believing comfrey helps to heal woundsand relieve pain.3,4 In this article, well explain where comfrey comes from, comfrey oils remarkable health benefits and how to use it at home. Seal with a lid and then label with the ingredients and date. Please read the Topical Use Safety section of this article (above) before using. The participants were assigned three weeks of treatment with two grams of either comfrey ointment or a placebo three times a day. Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications. Toxicol Lett 2005;155:411-20. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Comfrey is a shrub that grows in parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. Small glass jars with lids for sharing (optional). Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties Customer Reviews Ingredients Full ingredients Brassica Campest is Seed Oil (Rapeseed Oil), Symphytum Officinale Herb (Comfrey Herb), BHA, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil (Eucalyptus Oil). Study results revealed that pain intensity during active movement decreased an average of 95.2% in the group given comfrey ointment. It is called knitbone or boneset, referring to the bone-like growth of its roots. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label. Staiger, C. Comfrey: a clinical overview. Kucera, M., Barna, M., Horacek, O., Kovarikova, J., and Kucera, A. Efficacy and safety of topically applied Symphytum herb extract cream in the treatment of ankle distortion: results of a randomized controlled clinical double blind study. British journal of sports medicine, 44(9), 637-641. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsm.2009.058677, Grube, B., Grnwald, J., Krug, L., & Staiger, C. (2007). Complementary Health Approaches for Chronic Pain: What the Science Says. Also, avoid use for more than two weeks or excessive concentrations containing more than 100 mcg of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (Wichtl, 2004 & Ulbricht, 2010). Registered office: Samuel Ryder House, Barling Way, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 7RH. Retrieved from, https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=295. Dosage: How Much Comfrey Cream Should I Use? View abstract. J Pharm.Belg. We cover all you need to know in this article. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010538, Smith DB, Jacobson BH. Food and Drug Administration. Herbal drugs and phytopharmaceuticals. Centurian, South Africa: Medpharm Scientific Publishers. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Cover, but leave a small air opening. 2019;24(12):2272. doi:10.3390/molecules24122272, Staiger, Christine. Barna, M., Kucera, A., Hladicova, M., and Kucera, M. [Wound healing effects of a Symphytum herb extract cream (Symphytum x uplandicum NYMAN: ): results of a randomized, controlled double-blind study].