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. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020. Using a combination product makes it challenging to know how much of the beneficial effect came from comfrey alone. View abstract. More research is needed. OTHER NAME(S): Ass Ear, Black Root, Blackwort, Bruisewort, Common. View abstract. View abstract. how to become a school board member in florida ocean deck band schedule Ingesting cooking oil has been banned by the European Union, due to a high risk of liver toxicity.9, Adults with liver disease, cancer, or a history of alcoholism are also advised to avoid comfrey because the skin can also absorb the liver-damaging compounds. Choose organically grown comfrey when possible. Wien Med Wochenschr. Jedlinszki N, Balzs B, Csnyi E, Csupor D. Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. 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. Recent studies have suggested topical benefits, but more research is needed. This perennial can grow up to 4-feet tall. View abstract. Phytomedicine. randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multi-clinical trial. The review included one study of 220 people with knee osteoarthritis, a degenerative "wear-and-tear" joint condition. Influence of moderate physical exertion on subacute low back pain, after Symphytum officinale ointment treatment. 1/8 cup comfrey tincture (Symphytum officinale), store bought or via recipe, above. It has bell-shaped red-violet or yellowish flowers. Its ready when the mixture has solidified somewhat and has a cloudy, creamy, and slightly runny consistency. 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. Can a comfrey (Symphytum officianale) root extraction help ease aching joints and muscles? Yield: Approximately 5 cups of whipped lotion. (Grube et al., 2007). 2012;101(4):211-216. Discard after a year or according to labeling. In a randomized, controlled, double-blind study with 203 patients, applications of a 10% comfrey cream were well tolerated, reduced swelling and pain, and improved mobility (Kucera et al., 2004). To Use. One study followed 142 patients with ankle sprains. Eucalyptus oil is used externally to stimulate blood flow. 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? The following applications have been used in research: Using large amounts of comfrey cream or using it for extended periods of time increases the risk of side effects like liver toxicity. Proliferative and antioxidant activity of Symphytum officinale root extract. View abstract. 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. DOI:10.1211/PJ.2021.1.69803. Supplements marketed for body-building (ex.. View abstract. The herbal topical cream was prepared at two different strengths, as an additional measure of efficacy. 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). Comfrey oil is a herbal oil that moisturises skin, and that's been used as a healing herb for a long time. Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 5 Feb 2023), Cerner Multum (updated 22 Feb 2023), ASHP (updated 12 Feb 2023) and others. Double boiler Need some help with an order or want to speak to a member of our Customer Services team? After 2-4 weeks have passed, strain the root from the alcohol using a coffee filter inserted in a wire mesh strainer or similar setup. Comfrey cream, an topical herbal product, is thought to reduce inflammation and pain when applied to the skin. Am J Med 1990;89:547-8. 2017;83:1-4. With extract of Comfrey. The roots and leaves of the comfrey plant have medicinal properties. Comfrey can also contain echimidine, pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), and symphytine, which can damage the liver, are carcinogenic (cancer-causing) and may harm a fetus. Hepatology. 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. Thus, it is not advised to ingest herbal preparations of comfrey unless guided by an expert pharmacologist and physician. Comfrey has been claimed to heal gastric ulcers and hemorrhoids, and to suppress bronchial congestion and inflammation. Like any new treatment, discontinue use if any irritation occurs. (2004). Tolerability and effectiveness of an antitrauma cream with comfrey herb extract in pediatric use with application on intact and on broken skin. What are the benefits of using it? My family has used comfy for ingrown toenails. It is easily absorbed to leave your skin feeling fresh, soft and radiant. Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Comfrey may have been applied to the skin in a specific preparation to treat some of these conditions. View abstract. Giannetti, B. M., Staiger, C., Bulitta, M., and Predel, H. G. 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. Z Phytotherapie 2000;21:127-134. Comfrey is a shrub that grows in parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. Registered office: Samuel Ryder House, Barling Way, Eliot Park, Nuneaton, CV10 7RH, UK. Centurian, South Africa: Medpharm Scientific Publishers. A handbook for practice on a scientific basis. Begin mixing on low. Copyright Holland & Barrett Retail Limited, 2022. The Pharmaceutical Journal, PJ, December 2007. Topically, comfrey root and leaf extracts have been traditionally used for bruises, sore muscles and joints, sprains, mild wounds, and gout (Natural Medicines, 2020). An Evidence-Based Reference. Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Bird Flu Deaths Prompt U.S. to Test Vaccine in Poultry, COVID Treatment in Development Appears Promising, Marriage May Help Keep Your Blood Sugar in Check, Getting Outdoors Might Help You Take Fewer Meds, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, Getting Help for a Loved One With Psychosis: It's Complicated, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Vitamins and Supplements to Avoid with Hepatitis C. Finally, well warn of any side effects associated with comfrey oil. When harvesting comfrey or buying from a non-commercial supplier, note that there is variety within the species. The use of babosa (Aloe vera) in treating burns: a literature review. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant. 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 . Palestrica of the Third Millennium Civilization & Sport. Poisons Legislation Circular 3-22-1993;60. In Western Europe, comfrey has been used topically for treating inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, gout, and thrombophlebitis, and internally for treating diarrhea. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. Barna, M., Kucera, A., Hladicova, M., and Kucera, M. [Wound healing effects of a Symphytum herb extract cream (Symphytum x uplandicum NYMAN: ): results of a randomized, controlled double-blind study]. HTB; 2021 2; Youtube; Twitter; Facebook; ; We go to great efforts to ensure that the information on this page is accurate at the time that the page was last edited. Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with comfrey does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product. Resuscitation 2008;76(3):323-324. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. This leads to cirrhosis and eventually liver failure. Food and Drug Administration. Using it no more than four to six weeks a year as a general guideline would be best. hollandandbarrett.com is a trading name of Holland & Barrett Retail Limited,. However, people with knee pain may be glad to try a topical preparation that could help in addition to any other recommendations made by their physician. Version: 5.01. Knit bone, Eucalyptus, Rapeseed Oil, BHA. Aust.Fam.Physician 2008;37(4):235-236. This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Comfrey should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor. 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 participants were assigned three weeks of treatment with two grams of either comfrey ointment or a placebo three times a day. Quis autem velum iure reprehe nderit. Homeopathy. By Megan Nunn, PharmD Registered in England: company no. Comfrey ( Symphytum officinale) is an attractive ornamental plant used in gardening and medicine. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. Comfrey is a fast-growing plant whose leaves and roots have been used historically for wound healing and other conditions. Two interesting studies found that a topical application of a product containing comfrey root extract helped with knee pain and stiffness. Amendments to the poison list. Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice. Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications. Read our. Herbal drugs and phytopharmaceuticals. Affiliate links are shared throughout the website and the Herbal Academy may receive compensation if you make a purchase with these links. Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties. Stickel F, Seitz HK. All rights reserved. The Comfrey Controversy: Can and Should One Use Comfrey Internally? Some drugs increase how quickly the liver changes and breaks down comfrey. Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. 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. 211727395. 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). Comfrey oil is made by infusing the leaves and roots of a comfrey plant with a neutral oil. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease. Comfrey is a flowering shrub that grows in Europe, Asia and, now, North America. Comfrey is not recommended for internal use because of the liver damage caused by its pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Hybrids and other species may have a similar appearance but could have significantly different amounts of the toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (Kucera et al., 2018). This is not recommended due to the presence of chemicals that can cause organ damage and cancer. Discontinue use if a rash appears. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, 83, 1-4. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yrtph.2016.11.015. Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. The Herbal Academy supports trusted organizations with the use of affiliate links. Br.J Sports Med. Staiger, C. Comfrey: a clinical overview. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. 2010;44(9):637-641. 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). J Pharm.Belg. Acupuncture has also shown solid evidence of benefit for back pain. Rad. 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). Comfrey has been used medicinally for at least 2000 years for various conditions, including bone fractures, ulcers, and gout. Do not use different forms (tablets, liquid, tincture, teas, etc) of comfrey at the same time without medical advice. Cap, then label the jars with the date made and ingredients. In a small study with 30 subjects, lower back pain from exercise was reduced with an ointment containing comfrey. Inhibition of prostaglandin biosynthesis and PAF-induced exocytosis. A handbook for practice on a scientific basis. Drug-induced liver injury. They help us to understand how people use the website and give us the ability to provide targeted marketing to you. Potters Comfrey Oil | Holland & Barrett Shop our range of Potter's Herbals products at Holland & Barrett, including Potters Comfrey Oil. One group used a cream with comfrey root fluid extract on the ankle while the others received a placebo. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. (2001). Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. If you're considering using the cream, consult your healthcare provider first. The recipe makes about 6 small jars. Comfrey is changed and broken down by the liver. Patients with hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to the plant should also avoid external use. 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). Comfrey can kill. CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. And topical capsaicin cream may help to relieve pain temporarily. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements. 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. doi:10.1002/ptr.4612, Salehi B, Sharopov F, Boyunegmez Tumer T, et al. Comfrey is often sold as an herbal supplement. 2012;20(11):1209-1216. Knee pain and stiffness can be a stubborn concern that keeps many from doing activities they enjoy. Simply massage into the skin as required. Can comfrey be used for cracked nipples during breastfeeding? As a Licensed Massage Therapist, I have personally made this comfrey cream recipe multiple times and given jars to my clients. 2007;157(21-22):569-574. Learn more in. Dosage: How Much Comfrey Cream Should I Use? Generic name: comfrey [COM-free] Kucera, A., Barna, M., Holcova, S., Horacek, O., Hladikov, M., & Ottillinger, B. Safety Alerts & Advisories: FDA Advises Dietary Supplement Manufacturers to Remove Comfrey Products From the Market. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use. Smith, D. B., & Jacobson, B. H. (2011). 2008;54(1):7-20. This site uses cookies to improve your experience. Phytother Res. The way that they work is by blocking small blood vessels in the liver. Most comfrey oils keep for around 2 years after production. J Chin Med.Assoc. A later study of 133 peoplefound some evidence that a topical combination of comfrey extract and tannic acid led to reduced knee pain. (3), 147-156. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2011.01.003. Wound-healing effects of a symphytum herb extract cream (Symphytum uplandicum Nyman) in children: A randomized double-blind study. Small glass jars with lids for sharing (optional). Palestrica of the Third Millennium Civilization & Sport, 14(3). The leaves and stems of comfrey contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause toxic damage if ingested in excess (Ulbricht, 2010). 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. When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. Whenselecting a brand of supplements, look for products certified by Consumer Labs, the U.S.Pharmacopeia, or NSF. Liver injury from herbal and dietary supplements. 12 drops juniper berry (Juniperus communis) essential oil Symphytum officinale L, S. asperum Lepechin, S. tuberosum L, Symphytum x uplandicum Nyman. Registered VAT no. Facebook; Twitter; Pinterest; Related Posts. Maryland Heights, MO. Frost R, O'meara S, Macpherson H. The external use of comfrey: a practitioner survey. An ankle sprain can come out of nowhere and cause a lot of pain, limitations, and regret until it is healed. View abstract. 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. Be sure to choose organic carrier oils and essential oils when possible. 2 Comfrey cream contains several active components (substances). 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. Undergoingmassage or taking up yoga may help alleviate pain and help people with back or joint problems function more easily. . (10), 707-714. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2005.06.001. July 6, 2001. (2018). View abstract. 95 ($14.78/Fl Oz) FREE delivery Wed, Mar 8 on $25 of items shipped by Amazon. Molecules. This was compared to 37.8% in the placebo group. It's found in Europe, Asia, and North America. Topically applied comfrey oil is associated with a wide range of health benefits and can help with certainissues including: Comfrey oil is good at helping with superficial cuts, scratches, and scrapes. For topical comfrey cream, look for products labeled as free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. View abstract. Heard about essential oils but not quite sure about what they can do for you? Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a plant with yellow or purple flowers found in Europe, Asia, and North America. No comments. A limited number of clinical trials show short-term efficacy of topically applied, alkaloid-free comfrey preparations in skin abrasions and inflammatory conditions. ). Those who used the comfrey ointment experienced improvements in pain, mobility, and quality of life. View abstract. Electric bowl mixer (like a KitchenAid) or a blender, Small glass jars with lids for sharing (optional). Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties. This comfrey cream recipe works great for local areas that have mild bruising or soft tissue pain. Our associates are qualified to advise, visit us online or in store for unparalleled advice. 4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars (225) $19.95 $ 19. Bhupesh started his career as a Clinical Toxicologist for Public Health England, advising healthcare professionals all around the country on how to manage clinical cases of adverse exposure to supplements, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, industrial chemicals and agricultural products. This is done by soaking the root in at least 50% alcohol for a minimum of two weeks. 211727395. Staiger, C. Comfrey root: from tradition to modern clinical trials. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label. 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. Comfrey is avoided on cuts or puncture wounds for this reason. 2007;14(1):2-10. Comfrey might harm the liver. 4-4-2009;139(13-14):210-211. 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. For that reason, Ive also included my go-to comfrey cream recipe for achy joints and muscles! Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments. This is memorable if you have worked with it, and some use this quality to remember comfreys centuries-long useapplying comfrey over bones, bruises, sprains, and minor wounds with the intention to support mending! Kucera, M., Kalal, J., and Polesna, Z. Copyright Holland & Barrett Retail Limited, 2022. Fortschr Med Orig 2002;120:1-9. If you choose to use comfrey, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. 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). Nat Prod Res 2018;32(5):605-9. doi: 10.1080/14786419.2017.1326492. Pharmazie 1995;50:83-98. A symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises. comfrey: [noun] any of a genus (Symphytum) of perennial herbs of the borage family with coarse hairy entire leaves and flowers in one-sided racemes. Efficacy and tolerance of a comfrey root extract (Extr. Comfrey is considered likely unsafe to use if you are nursing a baby. Vithayathil MK, Edwards M. Comfrey herbal remedy causing second-degree heart block: do not be outfoxed by digitalis. However, not a rate considered harmful for those with healthy livers.10,11, Masters Degree in Toxicology and BSc Hons in Medical Biochemistry. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions before use. 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. 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. A member of the borage family, comfrey root, leaves, and stems have an obvious coat of bristly hair. Stewart MJ, Steenkamp V. Pyrrolizidine poisoning: a neglected area in human toxicology. The use of babosa (Aloe vera) in treating burns: a literature review. Phytomedicine 2005;12(10):707-714. It may contain small amounts of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. New South Wales Health, Australia. Therapeutic use of comfrey is limited because of its toxicity. This could change the effects and side effects of comfrey. 2010;44(9):637-41. doi:10.1136/bjsm.2009.058677, Cameron M, Chrubasik S. Topical herbal therapies for treating osteoarthritis.