What is comfrey ointment used for?
Comfrey ointments have been used to heal bruises as well as pulled muscles and ligaments, fractures, sprains, strains, and osteoarthritis. In the past, comfrey was also used to treat stomach problems. However, it has toxic substances called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that damage the liver and can lead to death.
Is comfrey Cream safe to use?
The FDA has recommended that all oral comfrey products be removed from the market. When applied to the skin: When applied to unbroken skin in small amounts for less than 10 days, comfrey is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people. It’s important to remember that the poisonous chemicals in comfrey can pass through the skin.
Is comfrey good for open wounds?
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) acts as an anti-inflammatory to promote healing of bruises, sprains, and open wounds when applied topically. The roots and leaves of this plant contain the protein allantoin, which stimulates cell proliferation and promote wound and bone healings.
Does comfrey cause liver damage?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has rejected some of the health claims made by makers of products using green tea. Comfrey contains has toxic substances called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that damage the liver, sometimes fatally.
What are the side effects of comfrey?
Common side effects of comfrey include:
- abdominal distension.
- abdominal pain.
- loss of appetite.
- lack of energy.
- liver enlargement.
- decreased urine output.
- obstruction of small veins in the liver (veno-occlusive disease)
What is symphytum used for?
Symphytum species belongs to the Boraginaceae family and have been used for centuries for bone breakages, sprains and rheumatism, liver problems, gastritis, ulcers, skin problems, joint pain and contusions, wounds, gout, hematomas and thrombophlebitis.
Can comfrey cause a rash?
Comfrey may cause serious allergic reactions. Stop using Comfrey and seek emergency medical attention if you develop difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of your face, lips or tongue.