These include allantoin, rosmarinic acid, and others. It should only be used in small amounts for short periods as a cream. What are the benefits of using it? Rad. 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. Comfrey cream 98% Naturally derived. Poisons Legislation Circular 3-22-1993;60. Tunon, H., Olavsdotter, C., and Bohlin, L. Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of some Swedish medicinal plants. A later study of 133 peoplefound some evidence that a topical combination of comfrey extract and tannic acid led to reduced knee pain. We go to great efforts to ensure that the information on this page is accurate at the time that the page was last edited. Like any new treatment, discontinue use if any irritation occurs. WMW Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift, 154(21), 498-507. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10354-004-0114-8, Natural Medicines (2020). Comfrey is likley unsafe to take by mouth. 4-4-2009;139(13-14):210-211. Scientific studies have shown comfrey oil can help reduce the likelihood leg ulcers will become infected.7, Topical application of comfrey oil has been shown to support the lower and upper back more than methyl nicotinate, the main ingredient in many muscle creams.8. A limited number of clinical trials show short-term efficacy of topically applied, alkaloid-free comfrey preparations in skin abrasions and inflammatory conditions. Mazzocchi, A. and Montanaro, F. Observational study of the use of Symphytum 5CH in the management of pain and swelling after dental implant surgery. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. View abstract. Soaked foot in warm water with a few leaves of comfry. Three clinical studies have provided evidence that ointments containing comfrey root have helped reduce back pain. The ankle swelling decreased by 79.5% in the comfrey root group and 69.4% in the diclofenac group. Am J Med 1990;89:547-8. This leads to cirrhosis and eventually liver failure. Comfrey cream may help treat knee osteoarthritis, according to a Cochrane review of topical herbal therapies. Further study is needed to confirm these results. Also, avoid use for more than two weeks or excessive concentrations containing more than 100 mcg of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (Wichtl, 2004 & Ulbricht, 2010). We are building the future of Health and Wellness Tech. When buying commercial brands, seek those that have had the pyrrolizidine alkaloids removed, if possible. This soothing blend of herbal oils contains Comfrey (also known as Knitbone) and Eucalyptus Oil. Our Two Pennies Worth. The review included one study of 220 people with knee osteoarthritis, a degenerative "wear-and-tear" joint condition. In 2001, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned oral comfrey products. Resuscitation 2008;76(3):323-324. Choose a supplement tested by a trusted third party, such as USP, ConsumerLabs, or NSF when possible. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. radix) extract ointment in the treatment of patients with painful osteoarthritis of the knee: Results of a double-blind, randomised, bicenter, placebo-controlled trial. Laslett, L. L., Quinn, S. J., Darian-Smith, E., Kwok, M., Fedorova, T., Korner, H., Steels, E., March, L., and Jones, G. Treatment with 4Jointz reduces knee pain over 12 weeks of treatment in patients with clinical knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled trial. J Pharmacopuncture 2021;24(4):196-205. However, not a rate considered harmful for those with healthy livers.10,11, Masters Degree in Toxicology and BSc Hons in Medical Biochemistry. This perennial can grow up to 4-feet tall. Comfrey has been claimed to heal gastric ulcers and hemorrhoids, and to suppress bronchial congestion and inflammation. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. Comfrey is changed and broken down by the liver. 2017;65(1):363-373. doi:10.1002/hep.28813. Therefore, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any supplements you plan to take and to check in about any potential interactions with other supplements or medications. When harvesting comfrey or buying from a non-commercial supplier, note that there is variety within the species. Of course, more research is needed to validate efficacy and safety. View abstract. They help us to understand how people use the website and give us the ability to provide targeted marketing to you. Additionally, there is scientific research demonstrating comfreys effectiveness at soothing muscle and joint pain, some of which are highlighted in this post. Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. Heard about essential oils but not quite sure about what they can do for you? 2012;(1):41-42. Metabolism, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity of comfrey. Published 2021 Sep 20. doi:10.1590/1519-6984.249209, Frost R, MacPherson H, O'Meara S. A critical scoping review of external uses of comfrey (Symphytum spp.). J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. View abstract. Complement Ther Clin Pract. View abstract. 2004;11(6):470-477. This is because only a small amount of the pyrrolizidine alkaloids are absorbed through the skin (. Comfrey oil is made by infusing the leaves and roots of a comfrey plant with a neutral oil. This is memorable if you have worked with it, and some use this quality to remember comfreys centuries-long useapplying comfrey over bones, bruises, sprains, and minor wounds with the intention to support mending! Results of an observational study of patients]. Combination of comfrey root extract plus methyl nicotinate in patients with conditions of acute upper or low back pain: a multicentre randomised controlled trial. View abstract. Definitely do not use during pregnancy or nursing, with infants, and if you have liver or kidney disease. 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. Electric bowl mixer (like a KitchenAid) or a blender, Small glass jars with lids for sharing (optional). View abstract. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. Herbal drugs and phytopharmaceuticals. The plant has a long history in folk and ancient herbal treatments before comfrey is . Be sure to use comfrey root from a reputable source that has properly identified the species. Join rewards for life today and we'll give you 300 points worth 3.00. Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties. Pabst H, Schaefer A, Staiger C, Junker-samek M, Predel HG. Comfrey is a fast-growing plant whose leaves and roots have been used historically for wound healing and other conditions. Comfrey should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor. 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. Would you like to win our brilliant Botanical Business Package with nearly $1,000 in prizes? The leaves and stems of comfrey contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause toxic damage if ingested in excess (Ulbricht, 2010). Predel, H. G., Giannetti, B., Koll, R., Bulitta, M., & Staiger, C. (2005). Skin patch test before use, especially if you have sensitive skin, and never use on a deep wound. Our associates are qualified to advise, visit us online or in store for unparalleled advice. 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]. She is passionate about providing evidence-based recommendations that make health decisions easier and improve lives. 2011;10(3):147-56. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2011.01.003, Laslett LL, Quinn SJ, Darian-Smith E, et al. Symphytum species: A comprehensive review on chemical composition, food applications and phytopharmacology. Oral use of comfrey is not recommended because of potential liver damage. View abstract. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Save the remaining liquid alcohol portion. While there can be a variety of causes for back pain, these small studies offer hopeful results that comfrey root may offer potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory benefits. Brassica Campest is Seed Oil (Rapeseed Oil), Symphytum Officinale Herb (Comfrey Herb), BHA, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil (Eucalyptus Oil). My family has used comfy for ingrown toenails. Herb & Supplement Guide. Comfrey contains chemicals that can cause liver damage, lung problems, or cancer. Limited trials have evaluated the effectiveness of alkaloid-free preparations for external use; however, these studies did not examine how much liver damage occurred in patients. A member of the borage family, comfrey root, leaves, and stems have an obvious coat of bristly hair. Spine(Phila Pa 1976). Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties. Many have said that it has helped them with a variety of aches and pains! After the tincture is made, then you can whip up the fabulous joint and muscle cream! Discontinue use if a rash appears. 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. Comfrey contains toxic substances that cause liver damage, cancer, and death. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 220 patients with knee osteoarthritis used either a commercial topical comfrey root extract or a placebo. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are breast-feeding a baby. Discard after a year or according to labeling. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. 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. Label with the ingredients and date made. 2013;5(5):CD010538. Whenselecting a brand of supplements, look for products certified by Consumer Labs, the U.S.Pharmacopeia, or NSF. View abstract. Herbal drugs and phytopharmaceuticals. In another study, participants with ankle sprains received either comfrey root extract cream or diclofenac gel, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). 2013;163(3-4):58-64. J Chin Med.Assoc. July 6, 2001. Toe was infected and painful. Public Health Nutr 2000;3:501-8. After the tincture is made, then you can whip up the fabulous joint and muscle cream! Make sure to always buy comfrey (Symphytum officianale) root and leaf from a trusted source. 2007;14(1):2-10. Preclinical studies suggest that oral comfrey has antiproliferative effects , and a topical formulation showed wound healing properties . Acupuncture has also shown solid evidence of benefit for back pain. Natural Standard. Satisfaction. Healthy adults: massage about 1 teaspoon of cream into a local area up to 4x/day for up to 2 weeks. J Pharm.Belg. Anotherstudy found that comfrey ointment was superior to placebo in relieving pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis. 2021;83:e249209. View abstract. Because of the risk of liver toxicity, comfrey cream shouldn't be used with other medicines that may also cause liver damage. In a randomized, controlled, double-blind study with 203 patients, applications of a 10% comfrey cream were well tolerated, reduced swelling and pain, and improved mobility (Kucera et al., 2004). Homeopathy. Healthy adults: massage about 1 teaspoon of cream into a local area up to 4x/day for up to 2 weeks.