Comfrey: uses, side effects, interactions

Benefits

Comfrey for what?

Comfrey is an herbal plant commonly used as a mouthwash for gum disease and sore throats. Comfrey can also be applied to the skin for ulcers, wounds, arthritis, bruises, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and fractures.

However, due to its toxic content which can damage the liver, comfrey is not recommended to be swallowed. The leaves, roots, and root stems (rhizome) of comfrey, which are commonly processed to make medicine, contain toxic chemicals, called pyrrolizidine (PA) alkaloids.

The amount of PA found in comfrey roots was 10 times higher than in the leaves.

Some products labeled "common comfrey" or Symphytum officinale actually contain the species Symphytum asperum or "Russian comfrey" (Symphytum x uplandicum. Both are poisonous comfrey plants.

How does it work?

There is not enough research into how this herbal supplement works. Discuss with your herbalist or doctor for more information. However, there are some studies showing that allantoin, a chemical in comfrey, stimulates cell division and promotes wound healing.

Dose

The information provided below is not a substitute for medical recommendations. Always consult your herbalist or doctor before taking this medicine.

What is the usual dose for comfrey for adults?

The risk of liver damage due to toxins from comfrey is so high that this herbal remedy is not recommended for consumption. Other methods of treatment such as topical creams or ointments are allowed because the alkaloids that are absorbed by the skin can be excreted directly in the urine. Even so, the allowable dose of alkaloids in the cream medicine should not exceed 100 micrograms (mcg) / day.

The dosage of the herbal ointment varies from patient to patient. The dose you will need depends on your age, health, and several other conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe for consumption. Discuss with your herbalist or doctor for a dosage that is suitable for you.

In what form is comfrey available?

This herbal supplement is available in the form of an ointment.

Side effects

What side effects can comfrey have?

Comfrey can cause several side effects including:

Nausea, vomiting, anorexia, abdominal pain, hepatomegaly, hepatotoxicity, hepatic adenoma (all reactions from oral use)
Bladder tumor
Hypersensitivity reaction

Not everyone experiences this side effect. There may be other side effects which are not listed here. If you have concerns about certain side effects, please consult your herbalist or doctor.

Security

What should I know before taking comfrey?

Store comfrey in a cool and dry place, away from heat and moisture. Do not use comfrey for more than 6 weeks in 1 year. Do not use this herb on injured skin. Comfrey is used only for external use. The reason is, internal use can cause fatal hepatotoxicity.

How safe is comfrey?

The distribution and use of herbal supplements is not strictly regulated by the BPOM like medical drugs. Further research is still needed to ensure its safety. Before using, consult an herbalist or doctor for more information to make sure the benefits of using herbal supplements outweigh the risks.

Comfrey should not be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This herb should not be given to children. Comfrey is one plant that should not be used by people who are hypersensitive to this herb or have liver disease.