Note: This article first appeared in The Future of Health Now in 2013
Comfrey is a large-leafed, hairy weed often
seed in ditches and areas with rich, wet soil. The leaves are an enchanting
blue-green, with dainty purple or white flowers. Though often overlooked as an
invasive weed by gardeners and landscapers, comfrey is one of those miraculous
herbs that seem to be a "gift from the heavens." Not only does this
beautiful, wild plant have a wide variety of practical and medicinal uses, it
also grows prolifically.
The common name "knit-bone" gives an obvious clue to one important use for this herb. Comfrey reliably speeds cell regeneration and growth due to its content of allantoin, and has been used for centuries to help heal broken bones, bruises, sprains. Comfrey is also used as treatment for pain and inflammation, both of which commonly accompany injuries. For these reasons, it is considered practical to keep a few leaves in the freezer at all times.
Comfrey is not limited to acquired injuries, however. It is also used as a healing cream or wash for a variety of skin conditions, such as eczema, acne, psoriasis, varicose veins, and varicose ulcers. Be aware that allantoin may irritate sensitive skin, though this is more likely if the hairy, raw leaves come in direct contact with skin, such as during harvest. It can also be used for cuts and scrapes, but avoid use on deep wounds which may be susceptible to infection and require the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Although comfrey contains compounds which are linked to liver damage and liver cancer when ingested, comfrey leaf is often enjoyed in salads. The root should never be consumed, and you should avoid eating comfrey if you have any liver damage or are taking medications. Topical application is still safe. In many parts of Europe, comfrey leaf is still used to successfully treat gastric ulcers and colitis. It is also considered to be high in protein (35% to be exact), and vitamins A and B12.
The common name "knit-bone" gives an obvious clue to one important use for this herb. Comfrey reliably speeds cell regeneration and growth due to its content of allantoin, and has been used for centuries to help heal broken bones, bruises, sprains. Comfrey is also used as treatment for pain and inflammation, both of which commonly accompany injuries. For these reasons, it is considered practical to keep a few leaves in the freezer at all times.
Comfrey is not limited to acquired injuries, however. It is also used as a healing cream or wash for a variety of skin conditions, such as eczema, acne, psoriasis, varicose veins, and varicose ulcers. Be aware that allantoin may irritate sensitive skin, though this is more likely if the hairy, raw leaves come in direct contact with skin, such as during harvest. It can also be used for cuts and scrapes, but avoid use on deep wounds which may be susceptible to infection and require the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Although comfrey contains compounds which are linked to liver damage and liver cancer when ingested, comfrey leaf is often enjoyed in salads. The root should never be consumed, and you should avoid eating comfrey if you have any liver damage or are taking medications. Topical application is still safe. In many parts of Europe, comfrey leaf is still used to successfully treat gastric ulcers and colitis. It is also considered to be high in protein (35% to be exact), and vitamins A and B12.
For a quick poultice, mash the whole leaf and apply to fresh bruises and injuries.
To make a compress, boil 2-4 leaves in 4 cups of water. Allow to steep, and do not remove the leaves. When the water is just hot enough to stand comfortably, either soak the affected area or apply cloths soaked in the infusion, reapplying as they cool. Do this for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day for best results.
To make a healing oil, fill a small jar with dried comfrey, and then fill the jar to the top with cold-pressed olive oil. Most other liquid oils will work, too. Allow to soak for 3-4 weeks. Strain, and apply externally where needed. May also be combined with dried chamomile leaves to create an excellent diaper rash cream.
To make a compress, boil 2-4 leaves in 4 cups of water. Allow to steep, and do not remove the leaves. When the water is just hot enough to stand comfortably, either soak the affected area or apply cloths soaked in the infusion, reapplying as they cool. Do this for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day for best results.
To make a healing oil, fill a small jar with dried comfrey, and then fill the jar to the top with cold-pressed olive oil. Most other liquid oils will work, too. Allow to soak for 3-4 weeks. Strain, and apply externally where needed. May also be combined with dried chamomile leaves to create an excellent diaper rash cream.
To make a perineal and C-section healer post-partum, dry the whole root in slices and then blend or crush to a fine powder. Mix with equal parts slippery elm bark powder. Mix 1/8tsp of the herbs with 1tbsp water daily to make a soothing and healing "goo" that can be applied to perineal tears and stitches to put out the fire and speed healing.
*Please always consult a healthcare professional of your choosing if you are on medication or have a health condition before beginning any herbal regime*
Resources:
- Prescription for Herbal Healing: 2nd Edition - Phyllis A. Balch, CNC
- The New Age Herbalist - Richard Mabey
Resources:
- Prescription for Herbal Healing: 2nd Edition - Phyllis A. Balch, CNC
- The New Age Herbalist - Richard Mabey
No comments:
Post a Comment