View abstract. A limited number of clinical trials show short-term efficacy of topically applied, alkaloid-free comfrey preparations in skin abrasions and inflammatory conditions. Undergoingmassage or taking up yoga may help alleviate pain and help people with back or joint problems function more easily. Without overexposure to air or heatand without cross-contaminationthe recipe should last as long as the expiration date of the carrier oils used. Save the remaining liquid alcohol portion. Molecules. Pabst H, Schaefer A, Staiger C, Junker-samek M, Predel HG. Our Two Pennies Worth. Please simply create an account before buying/booking any courses. It's found in Europe, Asia, and North America. Most comfrey oils keep for around 2 years after production. 2013;27(6):811-7. . 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.). The most common over-the-counter medication that can be toxic to the liver is acetaminophen (Tylenol). Seal with a lid and then label with the ingredients and date. Discard after a year or according to labeling. Symphyti) in the treatment of ankle distorsions: Results of a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. 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 . Symphytum officinale L., dermal use (Flexagile cream)]. Thus, it is not advised to ingest herbal preparations of comfrey unless guided by an expert pharmacologist and physician. View abstract. Wien Med Wochenschr. Avoid use. 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. Results of an observational study of patients]. Barna, M., Kucera, A., Hladikova, M., and Kucera, M. Randomized double-blind study: wound-healing effects of a Symphytum herb extract cream (Symphytumxuplandicum Nyman) in children. 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. Comfrey oil should be applied topically to parts of the body where you have muscular pain or discomfort. Some medications can also harm the liver. Liver injury from herbal and dietary supplements. View abstract. Small glass jars with lids for sharing (optional). The Effect of Comfrey on Enoxaparin-Induced Bruise in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Randomised Clinical Trial. Learn more in The Comfrey Controversy: Can and Should One Use Comfrey Internally? Medicine makers would bind comfrey leaves and roots in poultices, then apply those poultices to the skin to treat injuries. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. View abstract. Because of the risk of liver toxicity, comfrey cream shouldn't be used with other medicines that may also cause liver damage. View abstract. Symphyti) bei Sprunggelenks-distorsionen. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. One group used a cream with comfrey root fluid extract on the ankle while the others received a placebo. Koll, R., Buhr, M., Dieter, R., Petrowicz, O., Gianetti, B., and Wagener, S. Wirksamkeit und Vertraglichkeit von Beinwellextrakt (Extr. What Are the Side Effects of Comfrey Cream? Many have said that it has helped them with a variety of aches and pains! Koll R, Klingenburg S. [Therapeutic characteristance and tolerance of topical comfrey preparations. Although not examined in clinical trials, comfrey may possess antifungal and anticancer activity. Grube, B., Grunwald, J., Krug, L., and Staiger, C. Efficacy of a comfrey root (Symphyti offic. 2013;21(6):724-745. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2013.09.009. 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). Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. 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. To use on established plants, dilute 1 part comfrey fertilizer in 15 parts water. Roeder E. Medicinal plants in Europe containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Consult your healthcare provider before using comfrey cream. 211727395. Medicine makers would bind comfrey leaves and roots in poultices, then apply those poultices to the skin to treat injuries. 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. Z Phytotherapie 2000;21:127-134. Symphytum officinale), store bought or via recipe, above. This is done by soaking the root in at least 50% alcohol for a minimum of two weeks. Comfrey is considered likely unsafe to use if you are nursing a baby. Allow the oil mixture to cool until it reaches room temperature, which could take 8-12 hours. Symphyti) in the treatment of ankle distorsions: results of a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. We are building the future of Health and Wellness Tech. Remove from heat. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant. Eucalyptus oil is used externally to stimulate blood flow. The efficacy and safety of comfrey. With extract of Comfrey. View abstract. 2004;11(6):470-477. Do not use different forms (tablets, liquid, tincture, teas, etc) of comfrey at the same time without medical advice. Staiger C. Comfrey root: from tradition to modern clinical trials. 4-4-2009;139(13-14):210-211. Many of those following the folk use of comfrey up to present-day think so. Frost R, Macpherson H, O'meara S. A critical scoping review of external uses of comfrey (Symphytum spp.). Palestrica of the Third Millennium Civilization & Sport, 14(3). Select a condition to view a list of vitamins. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. 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. Other uses not proven with research have included skin wounds, skin ulcers, cough, sore throat, gum disease, joint pain, diarrhea, and other conditions. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. This site uses cookies to improve your experience. Discontinue use if a rash develops. Available at: https://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/dspltr06.html. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Am J Med 1990;89:547-8. However, not a rate considered harmful for those with healthy livers.10,11, Masters Degree in Toxicology and BSc Hons in Medical Biochemistry. 1/8 cup comfrey tincture (Symphytum officinale), store bought or via recipe, above. Sowa I, Paduch R, Strzemski M, et al. Comfrey flowers are bell-shaped and purple, pink, or pale yellow in color, and it has a dark taproot. Br.J Sports Med. 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). Book your free, one-to-one online consultation with one of our qualified advisors. 6 Healing Benefits of Comfrey. It also came as a reference to the belief that comfrey can mend broken bones. Vickers AJ, Vertosick EA, Lewith G, et al. Read our. There is no daily recommended allowance for comfrey, sold in creams, ointments, gels, and salves. (10), 707-714. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2005.06.001. Comfrey cream may help treat knee osteoarthritis, according to a Cochrane review of topical herbal therapies. Effects of Symphytum ointment on muscular symptoms and functional locomotor disturbances. When the root is boiled in water, it forms a sticky, glue-like paste. Koll, R., Buhr, M., Dieter, R., Pabst, H., Predel, H. G., Petrowicz, O., & Staiger, C. (2004). 2758955. Study results revealed that pain intensity during active movement decreased an average of 95.2% in the group given comfrey ointment. It should never be taken by mouth. 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. Wound-healing effects of a symphytum herb extract cream (. Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications. Complementary Health Approaches for Chronic Pain: What the Science Says. Comfrey is a perennial herb found in moist grasslands in western Asia as well as in North America. Topical comfrey is for use only on the skin. No comments. The plant leaves have a lower concentration of PAs than the roots. They help us to understand how people use the website and give us the ability to provide targeted marketing to you. Sometimes, massaging on topical ointments can help reduce pain and inflammation. Pyrrolizidine poisoning. To make the cream, combine sunflower oil, safflower oil, coconut oil, and cocoa butter in a double-boiler over low heat until completely melted. Join rewards for life today and we'll give you 300 points worth 3.00. If you're considering using the cream, consult your healthcare provider first. Commercial comfrey sale and distribution is restricted in Germany and Canada because of its substantial toxicity. Additionally, there is scientific research demonstrating comfreys effectiveness at soothing muscle and joint pain, some of which are highlighted in this post. Efficacy of a comfrey root (Symphyti offic. The comfrey plant, Symphytum officinale, gets its name from the Latin confervere, meaning to grow together. All rights reserved. Smith DB, Jacobson BH. However, further well-designed studies are needed. In a small study with 30 subjects, lower back pain from exercise was reduced with an ointment containing comfrey. Comfrey ( Symphytum officinale) is an attractive ornamental plant used in gardening and medicine. Version: 5.01. Centurian, South Africa: Medpharm Scientific Publishers. She is passionate about providing evidence-based recommendations that make health decisions easier and improve lives. Dosage: How Much Comfrey Cream Should I Use? doi:10.1002/ptr.4612, Salehi B, Sharopov F, Boyunegmez Tumer T, et al. Safety Alerts & Advisories: FDA Advises Dietary Supplement Manufacturers to Remove Comfrey Products From the Market. (2004). 12 drops peppermint (Mentha piperita) essential oil Comfrey cream Topically, comfrey root and leaf extracts have been traditionally used for bruises, sore muscles and joints, sprains, mild wounds, and gout (Natural Medicines, 2020). A multi-center, randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial was conducted with 161 patients having acute lower back pain. Need some help with an order or want to speak to a member of our Customer Services team? Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. A review of 26 clinical trials concluded that mild skin reactions were the most common side effects of comfrey creams used in the studies. Influence of moderate physical exertion on subacute low back pain, after Symphytum officinale ointment treatment. about an hour two nites. This is the tincture. When harvesting comfrey or buying from a non-commercial supplier, note that there is variety within the species. View abstract. Efficacy and tolerance of a comfrey root extract (Extr. When buying commercial brands, seek those that have had the pyrrolizidine alkaloids removed, if possible. Comfrey cream contains several active components (substances). 2012;62(6):285-289. Comfrey can also contain echimidine, pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), and symphytine, which can damage the liver, are carcinogenic (cancer-causing) and may harm a fetus. The ankle swelling decreased by 79.5% in the comfrey root group and 69.4% in the diclofenac group. Comfrey oil is a herbal oil that moisturises skin, and that's been used as a healing herb for a long time. Complement Ther Clin Pract. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label. Double boiler Be sure to use comfrey root from a reputable source that has properly identified the species. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are very toxic to the liver and are also carcinogenic (cause cancer). Comfrey root extracts have been used by herbalists and in folk traditions for centuries to soothe aches and pains. Can comfrey be used for cracked nipples during breastfeeding? 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. Written by Cerner Multum. (2001). Since these toxic substances can be absorbed through the skin, there's concern about the safety of comfrey cream applied topically. The leaves and stems of comfrey contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause toxic damage if ingested in excess (Ulbricht, 2010). Regarding its antioxidant, antilipoperoxidant, antiinflammatory, and cytotoxic properties. Phytother.Res 2012;26(10):1441-1448. 2019;24(12):2272. doi:10.3390/molecules24122272, Staiger, Christine. Definitely do not use during pregnancy or nursing, with infants, and if you have liver or kidney disease. 12 drops juniper berry (Juniperus communis) essential oil Simply massage into the skin as required. 2012;26(10):14411448. View abstract. By Megan Nunn, PharmD Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Feb 8, 2023. Its long, lance-shaped leaves can be up to 1 foot in length closer to the bottom of the stem and are shorter higher up the stem. Hybrids and other species may have a similar appearance but could have significantly different amounts of the toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (Kucera et al., 2018). 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? https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-007-0474-y. Arzneimittelforschung. This is because only a small amount of the pyrrolizidine alkaloids are absorbed through the skin (Jedlinszki et al., 2017). Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. Comfrey has been used medicinally for at least 2000 years for various conditions, including bone fractures, ulcers, and gout. View abstract. Wien Med Wochenschr. Phytomedicine, 11(6), 470-477. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2004.02.001, Kucera, A., Barna, M., Holcova, S., Horacek, O., Hladikov, M., & Ottillinger, B. 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. Preclinical studies suggest that oral comfrey has antiproliferative effects , and a topical formulation showed wound healing properties . Jedlinszki, N., Balzs, B., Csnyi, E., & Csupor, D. (2017). This perennial can grow up to 4-feet tall. Experts suggest not using comfrey cream for longer than ten days in a row. Check regularly, but it should take about six weeks for all the leaves to break down into a thick, black liquid. Natural Standard. 2758955. We go to great efforts to ensure that the information on this page is accurate at the time that the page was last edited. Would you like to win our brilliant Botanical Business Package with nearly $1,000 in prizes? Electric bowl mixer (like a KitchenAid) or a blender Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a plant with yellow or purple flowers found in Europe, Asia, and North America. (2018). Kuera, M., Barna, M., Horek, O., Kovrikov, J., & Kuera, A. View abstract. Studies in humans are very limited. Amendments to the poison list. Do not use this product if you have a sensitivity to any of the ingredients. Symphytum species: A comprehensive review on chemical composition, food applications and phytopharmacology. Phytomedicine. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Wien.Med Wochenschr. Staiger, C. Comfrey: a clinical overview. Poisons Legislation Circular 3-22-1993;60. Predel, H. G., Giannetti, B., Koll, R., Bulitta, M., and Staiger, C. Efficacy of a comfrey root extract ointment in comparison to a diclofenac gel in the treatment of ankle distortions: results of an observer-blind, randomized, multicenter study. To make this recipe, first, you must prepare the comfrey root tincture. Buy 1 get 1 Half Price | Plus an extra 20% off 30, Shop buy 1 get 1 half price on all gut health products, Looking for fitness advice & inspiration this New Year? Brassica Campest is Seed Oil (Rapeseed Oil), Symphytum Officinale Herb (Comfrey Herb), BHA, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil (Eucalyptus Oil). 2017;65(1):363-373. doi:10.1002/hep.28813. Comfrey may have been applied to the skin in a specific preparation to treat some of these conditions. International Journal of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, (4), 135-141. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpam.2018.11.002. Rad. Registered office: Samuel Ryder House, Barling Way, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 7RH. Influence of moderate physical exertion on subacute low back pain, after Symphytum officinale ointment treatment. Available for Android and iOS devices. 7-6-2001; Lin, C. C., Yang, C. C., Phua, D. H., Deng, J. F., and Lu, L. H. An outbreak of foxglove leaf poisoning. Nat Prod Res 2018;32(5):605-9. doi: 10.1080/14786419.2017.1326492. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. Huxtable RJ, Awang DV. Copyright Holland & Barrett Retail Limited, 2022. The plant has a long history in folk and ancient herbal treatments before comfrey is . It can grow up to 5 feet tall. 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. Patients with hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to the plant should also avoid external use. 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 is a fast-growing plant whose leaves and roots have been used historically for wound healing and other conditions. J Ethnopharmacol 1995;48(2):61-76. Stam, C., Bonnet, M. S., & van Haselen, R. A. We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. View abstract. Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know. Label with the ingredients and date made. A member of the borage family, comfrey root, leaves, and stems have an obvious coat of bristly hair. Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, 83, 1-4. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yrtph.2016.11.015. Chojkier M. Hepatic sinusoidal-obstruction syndrome: toxicity of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The herbal topical cream was prepared at two different strengths, as an additional measure of efficacy. Wichtl, M. (2004). 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. Do not take comfrey without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications: This list is not complete. When the root is boiled in water, it forms a sticky, glue-like paste. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Phytomedicine. Some drugs increase how quickly the liver changes and breaks down comfrey. 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. The cream was applied to the local lumbar area 4x during the day of the exercise, with the first application being pre-exercise (Jurcau & Jurcau, 2013). HTB; 2021 2; Youtube; Twitter; Facebook; ; 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. It contains chemicals that are poisonous. 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. View abstract. The leaves and stems of comfrey contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause toxic damage if ingested in excess (Ulbricht, 2010). Comfrey contains chemicals called. Satisfaction. To reduce the risk of side effects, never apply comfrey cream to broken skin or open wounds as it may be more highly absorbed by the body. Mazzocchi, A. and Montanaro, F. Observational study of the use of Symphytum 5CH in the management of pain and swelling after dental implant surgery. Osteoarthritis.Cartilage. All rights reserved. Resuscitation 2008;76(3):323-324. Comfrey contains toxic substances that cause liver damage, cancer, and death. 2008;54(1):7-20. Comfrey is an herb in the Boraginaceae family and has small purple flowers. Researchers have investigated the effects of comfrey cream on several health conditions. A later study of 133 peoplefound some evidence that a topical combination of comfrey extract and tannic acid led to reduced knee pain. Retrieved from, https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=295. Finally, well warn of any side effects associated with comfrey oil. The recipe makes about 5 cups of whipped creamy lotion. It may contain small amounts of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Beth Thomas, PharmD, is a clinical pharmacist and founder of BMT Consulting Services, LLC. The FDA has recommended that all comfrey products that are taken by mouth be removed from the market. 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. And topical capsaicin cream may help to relieve pain temporarily. 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). Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs. 2 cups organic, unrefined coconut oil Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed. 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. Modern science suggests that the ancients were correct in believing comfrey helps to heal woundsand relieve pain.3,4 In this article, well explain where comfrey comes from, comfrey oils remarkable health benefits and how to use it at home. It is easily absorbed to leave your skin feeling fresh, soft and radiant. NCCIH. Predel, H. G., Giannetti, B., Koll, R., Bulitta, M., & Staiger, C. (2005). byBhupesh Panchal, Senior Regulatory Affairs Associate, Comfrey oil is a herbal oil that moisturises skin, and thats been used as a healing herb for a long time.1, Since at least the 4th century, people have used comfrey medicinally.