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Comfrey

General Information

OTHER NAMES: Black Root, Blackwort, Symphytum officinale,

Symphiti herba/radix


HISTORY: Used as medicine SINCE 400 BC


PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, astringent, antimitotic

Considered Uses

Respiratory: Cough (expectorant)


Cardiovascular: Varicose veins


Gastrointestinal:  Hemorrhoids


Musculoskeletal: Joint pain. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, strains, bruises, gout, back pain (topical)


Skin: Decreases pain of wounds, burns, can increase callous formation


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SIDE EFFECTS: See cautions below


CAUTIONS/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Oral comfrey can cause liver damage, lung damage and cancer. Do not apply to open wounds. Many European countries and the FDA have taken the oral comfrey products off the market due to their potentially toxic properties. Not to be taken with many anti-seizure medicines, rifampin, rifabutin


FORMS: External use: ointment, oils, powders, creams


RECOMMENDED BRANDS

No recommended brands are currently available 


DOSAGES: As directed

Topically applied to skin as directed - should not be taken internally (orally) due to liver toxicity

German Commission E recommends use for only 4-6 weeks/year (external use)


*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. You must investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.

Comfrey

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*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.

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