Comfrey

Symphytum officinale

History

Comfrey has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to at least 400 BC, where it was used by Greeks and Romans for treating various ailments like wounds, bone fractures, and bleeding. The plant’s common names, such as “knitbone” and “boneset“, reflect its historical use in treating sprains, bruises, and fractures by applying poultices of leaves and roots. Native Americans also considered comfrey a sacred healing plant, using it both internally and externally.

Medicinal Uses

  • Wound Healing
  • Anti-Inflammatory
  • Pain Relief

Recipe To Try At Home

Comfrey Healing Cream


Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon grated beeswax
  • 1 handfull of fresh comfrey leaves
  • Cold pressed olive or almond oil – sufficient to fill 1 honey jar

Cooking Instructions

  • Place crushed comfrey leaves in an empty honey jar and cover with oil
  • Stand jar (without lid) in a pan of warm water – make sure the water reaches halfwa up the jar
  • Gently heat the water and allow to simmer for 20 minutes
  • Strain out the comfrey and return it to the jar (with now-infused oil) to the water pan
  • Melt the grated beeswax
  • Carefully remove the jar from the pan and allow the mixture to cool and solidify
  • Once the ointment has formed, lid the jar and label
  • Keep in a cool, dark place, and it should keep for several years.

How to Use:

Apply as needed to (freshly cleaned) cuts, burns, or bruises