When the root is boiled in water, it forms a sticky, glue-like paste. Using a supplement like comfrey may have potential side effects. Centurian, South Africa: Medpharm Scientific Publishers. Bleakley, C. M., McDonough, S. M., and MacAuley, D. C. Some conservative strategies are effective when added to controlled mobilisation with external support after acute ankle sprain: a systematic review. A symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises. 95 ($14.78/Fl Oz) FREE delivery Wed, Mar 8 on $25 of items shipped by Amazon. Allow the oil mixture to cool until it reaches room temperature, which could take 8-12 hours. (2001). Undergoingmassage or taking up yoga may help alleviate pain and help people with back or joint problems function more easily. One group used a cream with comfrey root fluid extract on the ankle while the others received a placebo. View abstract. 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. Comfrey root extracts have been used by herbalists and in folk traditions for centuries to soothe aches and pains. J Chiropr Med. This comfrey cream recipe works great for local areas that have mild bruising or soft tissue pain. Wien Med Wochenschr. J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. Join Rewards for Life today and we'll give you 300 points worth 3, Save 5% on your favourite products, plus get the lowest price from the last 90 days and free delivery on orders over 10. The Pharmaceutical Journal, PJ, December 2007. Potters Herbal Comfrey Oil is a soothing aromatic herbal massage oil. For one of these studies, the average time participants had experienced knee pain and stiffness leading up to the study was six and a half years! Comfrey is considered likely unsafe to use if you are nursing a baby. To Use. Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. You can weight them down with a rock or brick. Tanret, I. and Duh, D. [Pharmaceutical sheet. 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]. More research is needed. Avoid comfrey with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease. Copyright Holland & Barrett Retail Limited, 2022. Find out how to use it here along with its benefits. We cover all you need to know in this article. Here's 10 things essential oils are great for. Understand comfreys contraindications before using it. A handbook for practice on a scientific basis. Giannetti, B. M., Staiger, C., Bulitta, M., & Predel, H. G. (2010). Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, 83, 1-4. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yrtph.2016.11.015. It's typically only used in small amounts for a very short period. 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. Comfrey is often sold as an herbal supplement. Although not examined in clinical trials, comfrey may possess antifungal and anticancer activity. Lorem ipsum dolor sit nulla or narjusto laoreet onse ctetur adipisci. Public Health Nutr 2000;3:501-8. #HBTechCareers. To make this recipe, first, you must prepare the comfrey root tincture. Other herbal supplements that may have benefits for back pain include: Some other supplements that may be useful for osteoarthritis are: Back pain is often treated with medication such as over-the-counter pain relievers. Giannetti, B. M., Staiger, C., Bulitta, M., and Predel, H. G. 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. Stam, C., Bonnet, M. S., & van Haselen, R. A. This includes androstenedione, bishop's weed, borage, chaparral, comfrey, DHEA, echinacea, garlic, germander, golden ragwort, hound's tongue, kava, licorice, niacin (vitamin B3), pennyroyal oil, red yeast, St. John's wort, and others. View abstract. Comfrey oil is a herbal oil that moisturises skin, and that's been used as a healing herb for a long time. Comfrey shouldn't be used in any form during pregnancy or nursing due to the risk of liver damage to infants. It is not certain whether comfrey is effective in treating any medical condition. CLICK HERE TO ENTER! What Happens If I Use Too Much Comfrey Cream? Medicine makers would bind comfrey leaves and roots in poultices, then apply those poultices to the skin to treat injuries. Pabst H, Schaefer A, Staiger C, Junker-samek M, Predel HG. This is done by soaking the root in at least 50% alcohol for a minimum of two weeks. View abstract. Therapeutic use of comfrey is limited because of its toxicity. Do not use extra comfrey to make up the missed dose. These include allantoin, rosmarinic acid, and others. Bhupesh started his career as a Clinical Toxicologist for Public Health England, advising healthcare professionals all around the country on how to manage clinical cases of adverse exposure to supplements, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, industrial chemicals and agricultural products. Select a condition to view a list of vitamins. Scoop the finished comfrey cream into sanitized glass jars. In a randomized multicenter study with 164 ankle sprain patients, swelling and pain were improved more successfully using a comfrey root extract compared to a diclofenac gel (Predel et al., 2005). We are building the future of Health and Wellness Tech. Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. The recipe makes about 5 cups of whipped creamy lotion. These side effects may be common or severe. Knee pain and stiffness can be a stubborn concern that keeps many from doing activities they enjoy. doi:10.1002/ptr.4612, Salehi B, Sharopov F, Boyunegmez Tumer T, et al. Food and Drug Administration. View abstract. This site uses cookies to improve your experience. A few studies show that comfrey cream may be helpful in the treatment of ankle sprains. Herb & Supplement Guide. 1 It's found in Europe, Asia, and North America. The FDA has recommended that all comfrey products that are taken by mouth be removed from the market. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant. 2010;13(7-8):509-526. doi:10.1080/10937404.2010.509013, Staiger C. Comfrey: A clinical overview. 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. Comfrey oil is made by infusing the leaves and roots of a comfrey plant with a neutral oil. Beth Thomas, PharmD, is a clinical pharmacist and founder of BMT Consulting Services, LLC. Like any new treatment, discontinue use if any irritation occurs. Ask your doctor if you have any questions. Studies in humans are very limited. As an additional measure of efficacy, groups instructed to use the comfrey preparation for the longest period of time experienced the most improvement. Other alternative therapies may help to ease the pain. , meaning to grow together. Efficacy of a comfrey root (Symphyti offic. Nyman) in children: A randomized double-blind study. comfrey cream holland and barrettfeathered friend questions and answers. View abstract. Learn more in. how to become a school board member in florida ocean deck band schedule Comfrey's original name, knitbone, derives from the external use of poultices of its leaves and roots to heal burns, sprains, swelling, and bruises. Adv Ther 2005;22(6):681-692. Comfrey has been claimed to heal gastric ulcers and hemorrhoids, and to suppress bronchial congestion and inflammation. View abstract. 2013;163:5864 (2013) doi:10.1007/s10354-012-0162-4, Giannetti BM, Staiger C, Bulitta M, Predel HG. We go to great efforts to ensure that the information on this page is accurate at the time that the page was last edited. Comfrey contains chemicals called. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. Jedlinszki, N., Balzs, B., Csnyi, E., & Csupor, D. (2017). Comfrey has long been used in folk traditions for bruising and abrasions. 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. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. Ther Drug Monit 2001;23:698-708. Effect of a blend of comfrey root extract (Symphytum officinale L.) and tannic acid creams in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multiclinical trials. Registered office: Samuel Ryder House, Barling Way, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 7RH. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. The internal or extensive topical use of comfrey cannot be recommended because of numerous reports of liver damage. Avoid using comfrey together with other herbal/health supplements that can also harm the liver. Information offered on Herbal Academy websites is for educational purposes only. Topical comfrey is for use only on the skin. While larger and more studies are needed to fully determine safety and effectiveness, short term topical application of comfrey may give you peace of mind, relief, and support while you rest and heal, following any additional advice from your physician. Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know. Consult your healthcare provider before using. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Drug class: Herbal products. 1. If your healthcare provider recommends it, make sure to use it on intact skin for a small amount of time, and be careful that infants do not ingest it. Ingesting cooking oil has been banned by the European Union, due to a high risk of liver toxicity.9, Adults with liver disease, cancer, or a history of alcoholism are also advised to avoid comfrey because the skin can also absorb the liver-damaging compounds. Registered office: Samuel Ryder House, Barling Way, Eliot Park, Nuneaton, CV10 7RH, UK. International Journal of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, (4), 135-141. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpam.2018.11.002. The efficacy and safety of a homeopathic gel in the treatment of acute low back pain: a multi-centre, randomised, double-blind comparative clinical trial. Phytomedicine. 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. Need some help with an order or want to speak to a member of our Customer Services team? However, it did not affect markers of inflammation or cartilage breakdown over 12 weeks of treatment. Three clinical studies have provided evidence that ointments containing comfrey root have helped reduce back pain. Recent studies have suggested topical benefits, but more research is needed. What is niacinamide? View abstract. They help us to understand how people use the website and give us the ability to provide targeted marketing to you. 2017;83:1-4. Staiger, C. Comfrey root: from tradition to modern clinical trials. Comfrey is not recommended for children under three years old, as it's not been studied in that population. However, comfrey can also contain toxic substances called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that cause liver damage, cancer, and death. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Copyright Holland & Barrett Retail Limited, 2022. OTHER NAME(S): Ass Ear, Black Root, Blackwort, Bruisewort, Common. View abstract. Squish and squeeze as many leaves into as you can into the container. 2013;21(6):724-45. Do not take comfrey without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications: This list is not complete. In Western Europe, comfrey has been used topically for treating inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, gout, and thrombophlebitis, and internally for treating diarrhea. 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? Comfrey [Online article]. What are the benefits of using it? Begin mixing on low. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. (2018). The chemicals contained in comfrey may cause birth defects. This soothing blend of herbal oils contains Comfrey (also known as Knitbone) and Eucalyptus Oil. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Consult your healthcare provider before using comfrey cream. It is easily absorbed to leave your skin feeling fresh, soft and radiant. British Homeopathic Journal, 90(01), 21-28. https://doi.org/10.1054/homp.1999.0460. Amendments to the poison list. J Hepatol 2003;39:437-46. Predel, H. G., Giannetti, B., Koll, R., Bulitta, M., & Staiger, C. (2005). Stop using comfrey and call your healthcare provider at once if you have: liver problems-- nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Kucera, M., Kalal, J., and Polesna, Z. Kuera, M., Barna, M., Horek, O., Kovrikov, J., & Kuera, A. Set aside cup for the cream recipe and store the rest in a glass jar. My family has used comfy for ingrown toenails. View abstract. HOLLAND & BARRETT PRO VITAMIN E DAY CREAM 50ML This Vitamin E day cream works with your skin daily to hydrate and protect your skin. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use. Call your doctor for medical advice about . 2007;57(11):712-716. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. Close LOGIN FOR DONATION. Smith DB, Jacobson BH. Can quickly relieve muscle and joint pain. Since these toxic substances can be absorbed through the skin, there's concern about the safety of comfrey cream applied topically. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. Retrieved from, https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=295. Be sure to use comfrey root from a reputable source that has properly identified the species. Topical preparations of comfrey are generally safe provided they are not applied excessively or to an open wound. Barna, M., Kucera, A., Hladikova, M., & Kucera, M. (2012). Comfrey can also contain echimidine, pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), and symphytine, which can damage the liver, are carcinogenic (cancer-causing) and may harm a fetus. Comfrey root: from tradition to modern clinical trials, 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, Topical herbal therapies for treating osteoarthritis, Effect of a blend of comfrey root extract (Symphytum officinale L.) and tannic acid creams in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multiclinical trials, Treatment with 4Jointz reduces knee pain over 12 weeks of treatment in patients with clinical knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled trial. 98% Naturally derived. Available for Android and iOS devices. Results of an observational study of patients]. CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. 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. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Comfrey. Version: 5.01. Do not use different forms (tablets, liquid, tincture, teas, etc) of comfrey at the same time without medical advice. Although topical comfrey has been used for this indication, there's little evidence that it helps and can pose a big risk for nursing babies. 2012;(1):41-42. 2012;26(10):14411448. Label with the ingredients and date made. Comfrey may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide. (21), 498-507. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10354-004-0114-8, Natural Medicines (2020). 2020;142:104519. The way that they work is by blocking small blood vessels in the liver. Rad. View abstract. Wien.Med.Wochenschr. 2011;10(3):147-56. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2011.01.003, Laslett LL, Quinn SJ, Darian-Smith E, et al. Thus, it is not advised to ingest herbal preparations of comfrey unless guided by an expert pharmacologist and physician. Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 5 Feb 2023), Cerner Multum (updated 22 Feb 2023), ASHP (updated 12 Feb 2023) and others. Complement Ther Med. 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. It can grow up to 5 feet tall. Comfrey is a plant also known as Ass Ear, Black Root, Blackwort, Bruisewort, Consolidae Radix, Consound, Consoude, Consuelda, Gum Plant, Healing Herb, Herbe aux Charpentiers, Herbe la Coupure, Knitback, Knitbone, Langue-de-Vache, Oreille d'ne, Salsify, Slippery Root, Symphytum officinale, or Wallwort. Comfrey may have been applied to the skin in a specific preparation to treat some of these conditions. However, even if supplements are third-party tested, that doesn't mean they are necessarily safe for all or effective in general. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. HTB; 2021 2; Youtube; Twitter; Facebook; ; Arzneimittelforschung. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments. Comfrey [Online article]. Join Rewards for Life today and we'll give you 300 points worth 3, Save 5% on your favourite products, plus get the lowest price from the last 90 days and free delivery on orders over 10. Whether youve been hiking, biking, playing, or enjoying water sports, comfrey cream can be a wonderful ally in supporting achy muscles that result from physical, summertime activities. 6 Healing Benefits of Comfrey. In a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 142 ankle sprain participants, a comfrey root extract applied 4x/day for 8 days improved pain, swelling, and mobility without any adverse reactions (Koll et al., 2004). Choose organically grown comfrey when possible. 2 cups organic, unrefined coconut oil Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are very toxic to the liver and are also carcinogenic (cause cancer). View abstract. Choose organically grown comfrey when possible. These third-party organizations test products to ensure they were manufactured safely and contain the ingredients indicated on the labeling without contaminants. Registered VAT no. Retrieved from https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=295, Predel, H. G., Giannetti, B., Koll, R., Bulitta, M., & Staiger, C. (2005). Comfrey has been cultivated as a green vegetable and has been used as an herbal medicine for more than 2,000 years. FDA Advises Dietary Supplement Manufacturers to Remove Comfrey Products From the Market. This makes quite a thick rich cream good for a body cream and an all healing cream . A large review released in 2013 about the medicinal uses of comfrey stated: It is clinically proven to relieve pain, inflammation and swelling of muscles and joints in the case of degenerative arthritis, acute myalgia in the back, sprains, contusions and strains after . The first European settlers of America considered comfrey so indispensable, they carried it on their journey across the Atlantic in the 1600s.2. (10), 707-714. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2005.06.001. Comfrey is a fast-growing plant whose leaves and roots have been used historically for wound healing and other conditions. Wang YP, Yan J, Fu PP, Chou MW. Comfrey cream combines ingredients like oils or water and glyceryl stearate with Symphytum officinale (comfrey) extracts. This is the tincture. Comfrey may be used topically as a cream, ointment, salve, or paste. Experts suggest not using comfrey cream for longer than ten days in a row. (3), 147-156. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2011.01.003. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-007-0474-y. Latest: Senior Software Engineer - Front End Senior Software Engineer Senior Product Manager - Basket, Checkout and Payments UX Designer - Instore Tech. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination. Electric bowl mixer (like a KitchenAid) or a blender The efficacy and safety of comfrey. Cover, but leave a small air opening. Liver injury from herbal and dietary supplements. Comfrey contains chemicals that cause serious liver damage when taken by mouth. Ministry of Environment & Forests, Govt. Fortschr Med Orig 2002;120:1-9. Yield: Approximately 5 cups of whipped lotion. View abstract. Those who used the comfrey ointment experienced improvements in pain, mobility, and quality of life. Heat oil in double boiler gently then add beeswax until it melts. radix) extract ointment in the treatment of patients with painful osteoarthritis of the knee: results of a double-blind, randomised, bicenter, placebo-controlled trial. 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. Although not all side effects are known, comfrey is thought to be possibly safe when applied to unbroken skin for less than 10 days. Simply massage into the skin as required. Symphytum officinale L, S. asperum Lepechin, S. tuberosum L, Symphytum x uplandicum Nyman. The combination of Vitamin E, Wheat Germ oil and Rice Bran oil makes this cream perfect for your daily hydration needs. Toe was infected and painful. 2012;101(4):211-216. The Herbal Academy neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. Gyorik, S. and Stricker, H. Severe pulmonary hypertension possibly due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids in polyphytotherapy. 211727395. Eucalyptus oil is used externally to stimulate blood flow. Symphyti) bei Sprunggelenks-distorsionen. Newer Post Older . Topical preparations of comfrey are generally safe provided they are not applied excessively or to an open wound. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. A critical scoping review of external uses of comfrey (Symphytum spp.). Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have: Comfrey is considered likely unsafe to use during pregnancy. Seal with a lid and then label with the ingredients and date. Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties. To make the cream, combine sunflower oil, safflower oil, coconut oil, and cocoa butter in a double-boiler over low heat until completely melted. Arzneimittelforschung, 62(06), 285-289. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-007-0474-y, Giannetti, B. M., Staiger, C., Bulitta, M., & Predel, H. G. (2010). It has bell-shaped red-violet or yellowish flowers. Rad. 2012;62(6):285-289. Complement Ther Med. Pour into bowl /jug big enough for all ingredients and safe for the mixer. 12 drops peppermint (Mentha piperita) essential oil Some medications can also harm the liver. Centurian, South Africa: Medpharm Scientific Publishers. No comments. Do not use this product if you have a sensitivity to any of the ingredients. Efficacy of a comfrey root extract ointment in comparison to a Diclo-fenac gel in the treatment of ankle distortions: Results of an observer-blind, randomized, multicenter study. Acupuncture has also shown solid evidence of benefit for back pain. Small glass jars with lids for sharing (optional). Wound-healing effects of a symphytum herb extract cream (. Avoid taking comfrey orally (by mouth). When harvesting comfrey or buying from a non-commercial supplier, note that there is variety within the species. Symphyti) in the treatment of ankle distorsions: results of a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. 4-4-2009;139(13-14):210-211. randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multi-clinical trial. 2010;44(9):637-641. Drug-induced liver injury. Documented adverse effects (the pyrrolizidine alkaloids, have substantial risk of causing fatal liver damage and can cause abortion). All rights reserved. Medicine makers would bind comfrey leaves and roots in poultices, then apply those poultices to the skin to treat injuries. View abstract. Please read the Topical Use Safety section of this article (above) before using. BMJ Case Rep. 2016. Heard about essential oils but not quite sure about what they can do for you? Herbal medicine for low back pain: A Cochrane review. Kucera, A., Barna, M., Holcova, S., Horacek, O., Hladikov, M., & Ottillinger, B. The review included one study of 220 people with knee osteoarthritis, a degenerative "wear-and-tear" joint condition. Palestrica of the Third Millennium Civilization & Sport. Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs. Our associates are qualified to advise, visit us online or in store for unparalleled advice. This recipe is contraindicated for small children and those with certain medical conditions. Dietary supplements are not regulated like drugs in the United States, meaning the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve them for safety and effectiveness before products are marketed. Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Grube, B., Grnwald, J., Krug, L., & Staiger, C. (2007). In a study of 712 children with superficial wounds, applying a 25% comfrey cream for one week or up to two weeks (2-4x day) offered a strong benefit to risk ratio (Kucera et al., 2018). cup organic safflower oil Symphyti) in the treatment of ankle distorsions: Results of a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Save the remaining liquid alcohol portion. The study involved 43 patients with knee osteoarthritis and a six-week treatment period. 2758955. 2012;20(11):1209-16. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2012.07.019, Zago LR, Prado K, Benedito VL, Pereira MM. This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Effect of a blend of comfrey root extract (Symphytum officinale L.) and tannic acid creams in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multiclinical trials. Molecules. J Pharmacopuncture 2021;24(4):196-205. The roots and leaves of the comfrey plant have medicinal properties. View abstract. Because of the risk of liver toxicity, comfrey cream shouldn't be used with other medicines that may also cause liver damage. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. 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). Company number 02758955 Registered VAT number 211727395. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide. The groups using the herbal preparations reported a significantly greater reduction in pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis of the knee without serious adverse reactions (Smith & Jacobson, 2011). DOI:10.1211/PJ.2021.1.69803. cup organic sunflower oil This site uses cookies to improve your experience. The leaves and stems of comfrey contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause toxic damage if ingested in excess (Ulbricht, 2010). One study in 120 patients with acute upper or lower back pain used either four grams (g) of comfrey root ointment or a placebo (sham treatment) three times daily for five days. Satisfaction. View abstract. Many of those following the folk use of comfrey up to present-day think so. Healthy adults: massage about 1 teaspoon of cream into a local area up to 4x/day for up to 2 weeks. A systematic review and quality assessment of case reports of adverse events for borage (Borago officinalis), coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) and comfrey (Symphytum officinale). Taking comfrey along with a medication that can harm the liver might increase the risk of liver damage. In some cases, ointments with comfrey have caused redness, itching, and a rash (Smith, 2011). (2001). Wichtl, M. (2004). Avila C, Breakspear I, Hawrelak J, Salmond S, Evans S. A systematic review and quality assessment of case reports of adverse events for borage (Borago officinalis), coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) and comfrey (Symphytum officinale). Br J Sports Med. Make sure to always buy comfrey (Symphytum officianale) root and leaf from a trusted source. Jurcu, R., & Jurcu, I. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. View abstract. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a plant with yellow or purple flowers found in Europe, Asia, and North America. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.