Efficacy of a comfrey root extract ointment in comparison to a Diclo-fenac gel in the treatment of ankle distortions: Results of an observer-blind, randomized, multicenter study. 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). Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. These side effects may be common or severe. 2019;24(12):2272. doi:10.3390/molecules24122272, Staiger, Christine. Additionally, there is scientific research demonstrating comfreys effectiveness at soothing muscle and joint pain, some of which are highlighted in this post. 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). Affiliate links are shared throughout the website and the Herbal Academy may receive compensation if you make a purchase with these links. Avila C, Breakspear I, Hawrelak J, Salmond S, Evans S. A systematic review and quality assessment of case reports of adverse events for borage (Borago officinalis), coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) and comfrey (Symphytum officinale). comfrey cream holland and barrett - creditsolutionexperts.com Osteoarthritis Cartilage. Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties. comfrey cream holland and barrett. Staiger, C. Comfrey: a clinical overview. It is called knitbone or boneset, referring to the bone-like growth of its roots. Scoop the finished comfrey cream into sanitized glass jars. View abstract. After the consistency begins to thicken, turn the mixer up a little bit. This is not recommended due to the presence of chemicals that can cause organ damage and cancer. 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. Although not examined in clinical trials, comfrey may possess antifungal and anticancer activity. 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. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Ministry of Environment & Forests, Govt. Kucera, M., Kalal, J., and Polesna, Z. Koll, R., Buhr, M., Dieter, R., Pabst, H., Predel, H. G., Petrowicz, O., & Staiger, C. (2004). Comfrey may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide. Gyorik, S. and Stricker, H. Severe pulmonary hypertension possibly due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids in polyphytotherapy. Many have said that it has helped them with a variety of aches and pains! Barna, M., Kucera, A., Hladikova, M., & Kucera, M. (2012). For this reason, some topical products are advertised as made from comfrey leaves, but it's safest to choose a PA-free product. After the tincture is made, then you can whip up the fabulous joint and muscle cream! 2010;44(9):637-41. doi:10.1136/bjsm.2009.058677, Cameron M, Chrubasik S. Topical herbal therapies for treating osteoarthritis. 1 It's found in Europe, Asia, and North America. Thus, it is not advised to ingest herbal preparations of comfrey unless guided by an expert pharmacologist and physician. Human liver microsomal reduction of pyrrolizidine alkaloid N-oxides to form the corresponding carcinogenic parent alkaloid. Comfrey ( Symphytum officinale) is an attractive ornamental plant used in gardening and medicine. The review included one study of 220 people with knee osteoarthritis, a degenerative "wear-and-tear" joint condition. To use on established plants, dilute 1 part comfrey fertilizer in 15 parts water. 98% Naturally derived. 2004;11(6):470-477. Pabst H, Schaefer A, Staiger C, Junker-samek M, Predel HG. Journal of chiropractic medicine, 10(3), 147-156. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2011.01.003, Stam, C., Bonnet, M. S., & van Haselen, R. A. Therapeutic use of comfrey is limited because of its toxicity. It's typically only used in small amounts for a very short period. This perennial can grow up to 4-feet tall. You should never ingest comfrey by mouth. BMJ Case Rep. 2016. Kuera, M., Barna, M., Horek, O., Kovrikov, J., & Kuera, A. J Pharm.Belg. Comfrey: ancient and modern uses. Comfrey cream doi:10.1002/ptr.4612, Salehi B, Sharopov F, Boyunegmez Tumer T, et al. Comfrey also is known as Russian comfrey, knitbone, radix consolidate, bruisewort, blackwort, and slippery root. View abstract. 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. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Those who used the comfrey ointment experienced improvements in pain, mobility, and quality of life. Comfrey can kill. 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. Registered VAT no. Yield: Approximately 5 cups of whipped lotion. OTHER NAME(S): Ass Ear, Black Root, Blackwort, Bruisewort, Common. A handbook for practice on a scientific basis. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide. 2021;83:e249209. Researchers have found it does seem to reduce pain in some conditions, including back pain, osteoarthritis, and ankle sprains. 2012;20(11):1209-1216. 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. View abstract. Comfrey Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster root extraction help ease aching joints and muscles? It produces clusters of purple, blue, and white flowers, and it's famous for its long . British journal of sports medicine, 44(9), 637-641. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsm.2009.058677, Grube, B., Grnwald, J., Krug, L., & Staiger, C. (2007). Comfrey shouldn't be used in any form during pregnancy or nursing due to the risk of liver damage to infants. Safety Alerts & Advisories: FDA Advises Dietary Supplement Manufacturers to Remove Comfrey Products From the Market. Jurcu, R., & Jurcu, I. Wound-healing effects of a symphytum herb extract cream (. Quis autem velum iure reprehe nderit. Be sure to use comfrey root from a reputable source that has properly identified the species. Eucalyptus oil is used externally to stimulate blood flow. Drug-induced liver injury. Homeopathy. Although it has historically been used on open wounds, it is now not advised related to the toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can absorb more readily into the body through an open wound. Comfrey has been claimed to heal gastric ulcers and hemorrhoids, and to suppress bronchial congestion and inflammation. , 43 volunteers with osteoarthritis used either a topical cream containing comfrey, tannic acid, and eucalyptus or a placebo cream 3x/ day for 6 weeks. Can a comfrey (Symphytum officianale) root extraction help ease aching joints and muscles? Seal with a lid and then label with the ingredients and date. The recipe makes about 6 small jars. However, not a rate considered harmful for those with healthy livers.10,11, Masters Degree in Toxicology and BSc Hons in Medical Biochemistry. An Evidence-Based Reference. What alternatives to comfrey cream are there for back pain? Version: 5.01. Topically, comfrey root and leaf extracts have been traditionally used for bruises, sore muscles and joints, sprains, mild wounds, and gout (Natural Medicines, 2020). This site uses cookies to improve your experience. Comfrey is a perennial herb found in moist grasslands in western Asia as well as in North America. 2012;101(4):211-216. Adv.Ther 2000;17(4):204-210. 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. Essential oils are a whole new world in themselves & the benefits of using them are widespread. View abstract. We answer questions, including what are essential oils? & what can I use them for? in this article. Avoid using comfrey together with other herbal/health supplements that can also harm the liver. reduce lower back pain (Stam et al., 2001). Koll, R., Buhr, M., Dieter, R., Pabst, H., Predel, H. G., Petrowicz, O., Giannetti, B., Klingenburg, S., and Staiger, C. Efficacy and tolerance of a comfrey root extract (Extr. Comfrey cream contains several active components (substances). Mosby Elsevier. Available for Android and iOS devices. Although not all side effects are known, comfrey is thought to be possibly safe when applied to unbroken skin for less than 10 days. 2020;142:104519. 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. Molecules. It has bell-shaped red-violet or yellowish flowers. Comfrey is generally considered unsafe, with numerous toxicological effects in animals and humans. Efficacy of a comfrey root extract ointment in comparison to a Diclo-fenac gel in the treatment of ankle distortions: Results of an observer-blind, randomized, multicenter study. Knee pain and stiffness can be a stubborn concern that keeps many from doing activities they enjoy. cup organic sunflower oil Additionally, because its alkaloids are absorbed through the skin, use of comfrey as a poultice should not exceed an exposure of 100 mcg/day of the alkaloids. Don't use comfrey products if you have or are at risk of having liver disease, cancer, or are taking any medication that affects the liver since it may increase the risk of liver toxicity. 1.35 Fl Oz. View abstract. Koll, R., Buhr, M., Dieter, R., Petrowicz, O., Gianetti, B., and Wagener, S. Wirksamkeit und Vertraglichkeit von Beinwellextrakt (Extr. 4-4-2009;139(13-14):210-211. We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. Comfrey cream may help treat knee osteoarthritis, according to a Cochrane review of topical herbal therapies. Comfrey [Online article]. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. Our Two Pennies Worth. Huxtable RJ, Awang DV. It contains chemicals that are poisonous. randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multi-clinical trial. Wien.Med.Wochenschr. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements. State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority, Jharkhand Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. Beth Thomas, PharmD, is a clinical pharmacist and founder of BMT Consulting Services, LLC. Copyright Holland & Barrett Retail Limited, 2022. Nat Prod Res 2018;32(5):605-9. doi: 10.1080/14786419.2017.1326492. Soaked foot in warm water with a few leaves of comfry. They help us to understand how people use the website and give us the ability to provide targeted marketing to you. Comfrey is an herb in the Boraginaceae family and has small purple flowers. Available at: https://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/dspltr06.html. You and your healthcare provider should weigh the pros and cons and use it only under their supervision. 2013;27(6):811-7. Potters Comfrey Ointment | Holland & Barrett View abstract. You can purchase the Comfrey Ointment at Boots, Tesco, Sainsbury's or Holland & Barrett. Transfer the cooled oil and butter mixture to a standing electric mixer or blender. Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. There is no daily recommended allowance for comfrey, sold in creams, ointments, gels, and salves. (2004). 2011;10(3):147-56. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involving 120 patients with acute back pain, symptoms were quickly reduced in the group using 4 grams of an ointment containing 35% comfrey root extract 3x/day for 5 days (Giannetti et al., 2010). Aust.Fam.Physician 2008;37(4):235-236. Because of the risk of liver toxicity, comfrey cream shouldn't be used with other medicines that may also cause liver damage. Make sure to always buy comfrey (Symphytum officianale) root and leaf from a trusted source. Lewis, C. J. FDA Advises Dietary Supplement Manufacturers to Remove Comfrey Products From the Market. Hybrids and other species may have a similar appearance but could have significantly different amounts of the toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (Kucera et al., 2018). Comfrey Oil: Benefits, Uses & Risks | Holland & Barrett Be sure to choose organic carrier oils and essential oils when possible. Mazzocchi, A. and Montanaro, F. Observational study of the use of Symphytum 5CH in the management of pain and swelling after dental implant surgery. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. This could change the effects and side effects of comfrey. The ankle swelling decreased by 79.5% in the comfrey root group and 69.4% in the diclofenac group. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Centurian, South Africa: Medpharm Scientific Publishers. DOI:10.1211/PJ.2021.1.69803. Like any new treatment, discontinue use if any irritation occurs. Registered office: Samuel Ryder House, Barling Way, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 7RH. Discontinue use if a rash develops. Efficacy and tolerance of a comfrey root extract (Extr. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. WMW Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift, 154(21), 498-507. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10354-004-0114-8, Natural Medicines (2020). Tanret, I. and Duh, D. [Pharmaceutical sheet. It is easily absorbed to leave your skin feeling fresh, soft and radiant. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label. Comfrey is an herb in the Boraginaceae family and has small purple flowers. Also, avoid use for more than two weeks or excessive concentrations containing more than 100 mcg of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (Wichtl, 2004 & Ulbricht, 2010). All rights reserved. Be sure to use comfrey root from a reputable source that has properly identified the species. Electric bowl mixer (like a KitchenAid) or a blender, Small glass jars with lids for sharing (optional). Comfrey cream combines ingredients like oils or water and glyceryl stearate with Symphytum officinale (comfrey) extracts. Researchers have investigated the effects of comfrey cream on several health conditions. Comfrey Cream Recipe for Achy Joints and Muscles - Herbal Academy Bleakley, C. M., McDonough, S. M., and MacAuley, D. C. Some conservative strategies are effective when added to controlled mobilisation with external support after acute ankle sprain: a systematic review. Oral use of comfrey is not recommended because of potential liver damage. This soothing blend of herbal oils contains Comfrey (also known as Knitbone) and Eucalyptus Oil. Navarro VJ, Khan I, Bjrnsson E, Seeff LB, Serrano J, Hoofnagle JH. After the tincture is made, then you can whip up the fabulous joint and muscle cream! Amendments to the poison list. The first European settlers of America considered comfrey so indispensable, they carried it on their journey across the Atlantic in the 1600s.2. Comfrey has long been used in folk traditions for bruising and abrasions. Can comfrey be used for cracked nipples during breastfeeding? Comfrey has been cultivated as a green vegetable and has been used as an herbal medicine for more than 2,000 years. Company number 02758955 Registered VAT number 211727395. Jedlinszki N, Balzs B, Csnyi E, Csupor D. Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. When buying commercial brands, seek those that have had the pyrrolizidine alkaloids removed, if possible. The herbal topical cream was prepared at two different strengths, as an additional measure of efficacy. What are the benefits of using it? New South Wales Health, Australia. Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties Customer Reviews Ingredients Full ingredients Brassica Campest is Seed Oil (Rapeseed Oil), Symphytum Officinale Herb (Comfrey Herb), BHA, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil (Eucalyptus Oil). cup organic safflower oil It may contain small amounts of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. In Western Europe, comfrey has been used topically for treating inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, gout, and thrombophlebitis, and internally for treating diarrhea. When harvesting comfrey or buying from a non-commercial supplier, note that there is variety within the species. Frost R, Macpherson H, O'meara S. A critical scoping review of external uses of comfrey (Symphytum spp.). It also covers side effects, interactions, and what to look for. What Happens If I Use Too Much Comfrey Cream? Pyrrolizidine poisoning. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. Add comfy to Vaseline . Lorem ipsum dolor sit nulla or narjusto laoreet onse ctetur adipisci.