Comfrey
Symphytum
Symphytum, commonly known as comfrey, is a traditional plant used in various herbal practices. It has been traditionally employed for its healing properties, particularly in treating wounds and skin conditions, though specific uses vary among different traditions. Scientific evidence suggests that topical preparations of Symphytum officinale may be effective for managing acute back pain, knee osteoarthritis, ankle sprains, and myalgia, with a generally good safety profile observed in studies. The leaves contain polyphenols with stronger antioxidant activity than roots, potentially offering additional health benefits. Regarding its environmental impact, Symphytum has been noted to contribute nitrogen input through its roots into the soil, leading to alkalization without accumulation of nitrogen. There is no significant recorded evidence of major safety issues or drug interactions associated with this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study observed treatment-dependent modulation of human exfoliated deciduous tooth stem cell behavior across various assays, without clear adverse effects.
- Comfrey accounted for 66.0% of N input from TPW irrigation and led to soil alkalization without nitrogen accumulation.
- Topical Symphytum officinale preparations show efficacy in treating acute back pain, knee osteoarthritis, ankle sprains, and myalgia with an excellent safety profile.
- The study found that Symphytum officinale leaves contain polyphenols with stronger antioxidant activity than roots, potentially making them a viable alternative.
Frequently asked questions
What is Comfrey?
Comfrey (Symphytum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Comfrey?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Comfrey; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study observed treatment-dependent modulation of human exfoliated deciduous tooth stem cell behavior across various assays, without clear adverse effects.
How strong is the evidence for Comfrey?
The strongest finding for Comfrey carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Comfrey safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Comfrey in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Comfrey interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Comfrey in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Comfrey?
Comfrey is also known as: Окопник, Consoude.
Is Comfrey a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Comparative Chromatographic Analysis of Polyphenolic Compounds in Comfrey Leaf and Root with Determination of Their In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Symphytum officinale L. Plays a Dominant Role in Mitigating Nitrogen Accumulation in Soil Under Long-Term Irrigation with Treated Poultry Wastewater. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ethnopharmacological insights into Symphytum officinale L.: traditional uses, phytochemical composition, therapeutic potential, and clinical-toxicological implications. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The Impact of Homeopathic Medicines on Dental Stem Cells: An Experimental Study. literature abstract metadata