Comfrey ~ known botanically as Symphytum officinale ~ is a common herb with a rich history of traditional use in healing injuries & wounds. The genus 'Symphytum' is named for the Greek 'Sympho' meaning to grow together or unite (the same root word as symphony), and hints at this plant's remarkable mending abilities.
A key constituent within Comfrey is allantoin, known to stimulate fibroblast activity and speed the growth of new tissue ~ including bone, cartilage, ligaments & skin. Additional compounds like rosmarinic acid, mucilage & phenolic acids also help to move stagnant blood & fluids, thereby reducing swelling, bruising and pain.
POULTICES FOR INJURIES
One of the most effective ways to utilize the benefits of fresh Comfrey leaves is to apply it as a poultice. A poultice can be made simply by crushing fresh leaves in a mortar & pestle, or by using a blender or food processor to make a 'slurry' (essentially an herb smoothie). The macerated herbs are then applied over intact skin to cover the injured area.
When used topically on an acute injury, Comfrey poultices can shorten recovery time by easing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. They are most appropriate for acute sprains, strains, or bruises; fractures (as a supportive measure in addition to casting, where skin is unbroken); torn ligaments, tendon injuries or other connective tissue trauma; and to alleviate arthritis flare-ups.
POULTICE PREPARATION
The amount of leaves needed really depends on the size of the injured area you're applying it to. For a small area (such as a bruise or sprain), 3-4 medium size leaves should be adequate. For a larger area, you may need up to 6-10 leaves. You want to be able to cover the injury with about 1/8-1/4" of poultice.
You can also make a larger batch to store in the fridge for up to 48 hours, or pour into silicone ice cube trays and freeze for up to a few months to thaw and use as needed. This is a great way to have access to the poultice throughout winter months!
ADDITIONAL BOTANICALS
The following ingredients can provide additional benefits to your Comfrey poultice:
• Apple cider vinegar (up to 1 tsp) – boosts penetration of other ingredients; helps keep poultice fresh
• Honey (up to 1 tsp) – improves coherence for a more adhesive poultice; soothes tissues
• Turmeric (pinch of powder or grated thumb of fresh root) – reduces inflammation
• Gotu Kola (handful of fresh leaves) – improves connective tissue healing
• Lavender, Rosemary or Peppermint essential oil (up to 2 drops total per batch mixed into honey, vinegar or water before adding) – relieve pain
MORTAR & PESTLE METHOD
1. Harvest fresh (ideally young / less fibrous) Comfrey leaves and rinse to remove dirt
2. Finely chop the leaves and additional herbs if desired
3. Muddle with a heaping teaspoon of honey and/or a splash or raw apple cider vinegar (plus essential oils if using) to make a chunky paste that somewhat holds together
FOOD PROCESSOR METHOD
1. Harvest fresh Comfrey leaves and rinse to remove dirt
2. Roughly tear leaves and additional herbs if desired and place in food processor or blender
3. Add a teaspoon of water or apple cider vinegar (and honey / essential oils if using)
4. Pulse until it has the consistency of a spreadable paste
TO USE
Apply a thick layer (1/8-1/4") to skin. If needed, affix with a cloth or bandage to keep in place. I personally prefer to spread over beeswax wrap (which helps retain the poultice moisture) and affix it to the skin. I'll tie a dishcloth over it (to soak up anything that drips) and keep it loosely in place with breathable self adhesive medical tape wrap.
Leave on for 20-40 minutes at a time, and apply 2-3 times within the first few days; then 1-2 times per day for the rest of the first week. After that, you can switch to remedies for more long-term support, such as our Pain Healer Salve.
CAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS
Note that Comfrey poultices should not be used on any unbroken skin, open or infected wounds, growths, and for those who are pregnant or nursing due to the presence of specific alkaloids.