Comfrey Root

Description

Comfrey root (Symphytum officinale), known traditionally as “knitbone,” is one of the most valued herbs in the external herbalist’s toolkit. This organic comfrey root is rich in allantoin, a compound that supports cell renewal, and has been used for centuries in poultices, compresses, and salves for bumps, bruises, sprains, and general muscle and joint comfort. Comfrey root is for external use only.

Key Benefits

• External use tradition: Traditionally used in poultices and compresses to support the body’s natural recovery from minor bumps, bruises, sprains, and strains. The name “knitbone” reflects centuries of use in supporting bone and tissue comfort.
• Rich in allantoin: Comfrey root contains allantoin, a natural compound valued in traditional herbalism and modern skincare for its role in supporting healthy cell turnover.
• Salve and oil making: A popular base herb for homemade healing salves, balms, and infused oils. Comfrey root oil is a staple of the natural first aid kit.
• Garden compost tea: Comfrey root and leaves are prized by permaculture gardeners as a nutrient-rich compost tea and liquid fertiliser, especially for fruiting vegetables like tomatoes.

Poultice: Simmer 2 to 3 tablespoons of dried comfrey root in a small amount of water for 10 minutes to soften. Allow to cool slightly, then wrap the softened root in muslin or a clean cloth and apply to the affected area for 15 to 30 minutes. For bruise support, combine with Arnica.

Oil infusion: Fill a clean jar two-thirds full with dried comfrey root. Cover completely with olive or sweet almond oil. Infuse for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking daily. Strain and use as a topical oil, or add beeswax to make a salve. Pairs well with Calendula Petals for a soothing skin salve.

Garden fertiliser: Steep chopped comfrey root in water for 3 to 6 weeks, then dilute 1:10 and use as a potassium-rich liquid feed for tomatoes, peppers, and fruiting plants.

The name Symphytum comes from the Greek for “to unite” or “growing together of bones,” a direct reference to the plant’s centuries-old reputation as a bone-healing herb. Nicholas Culpeper wrote in 1652 that comfrey root was so effective it could knit together pieces of meat in a pot.

Comfrey root contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) which can be harmful to the liver if taken internally. This product is for external use only. Keep out of reach of pets, as comfrey is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested.

For external use only. Do not take internally. Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Do not apply to broken skin or deep wounds. Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Keep away from children and pets. This information is not a substitute for medical advice.