Comfrey
Symphytum officinale
The classic 'knitbone' — allantoin-rich leaf/root used topically to speed healing of bruises, sprains, and wounds.
Traditional use (european-folk): The classic 'knitbone' — allantoin-rich leaf/root used topically to speed healing of bruises, sprains, and wounds.
The classic 'knitbone' — allantoin-rich leaf/root used topically to speed healing of bruises, sprains, and wounds.
Active constituents are under study; evidence ranges from traditional use to preliminary human trials.
- The classic 'knitbone' — allantoin-rich leaf/root used topically to speed healing of bruises, sprains, and wounds.
Evidence strength: limited human.
- See the evidence level above
- Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are LIVER-TOXIC if taken internally; topical use on broken skin and any internal use are discouraged.
- Internal use
- Broken skin
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding
- Liver disease
Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are LIVER-TOXIC if taken internally; topical use on broken skin and any internal use are discouraged.
May interact with prescription medications — review with a clinician if you take any.
Use caution in pregnancy, breastfeeding, for children, and with chronic disease unless cleared by a clinician.
Choose reputable, tested suppliers; correct identification is essential for wild-harvested plants.
A genuinely useful topical for intact skin — but never swallow it.