Boneset
Symphytum officinale
Symphytum officinale, commonly known as comfrey, is a traditional medicinal plant used in various folk practices. It has been traditionally employed for its purported healing properties, particularly for wounds and skin conditions, though specific uses vary widely across different cultures and no definitive traditions are recorded. Scientific evidence supports the use of topical preparations derived from Symphytum officinale for treating acute back pain, knee osteoarthritis, ankle sprains, and muscle pain, with a generally good safety profile observed in studies. The plant also shows potential in enhancing soil fertility through nitrogen input and has been noted to modulate stem cell behavior without adverse effects. Comfrey leaves contain polyphenols with stronger antioxidant activity than roots, indicating additional beneficial compounds. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded, but caution should be exercised due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can be toxic in large doses.
- 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
- Topical Symphytum officinale preparations show efficacy in treating acute back pain, knee osteoarthritis, ankle sprains, and myalgia with an excellent safety profile.
- Comfrey accounted for 66.0% of N input from TPW irrigation and led to soil alkalization without nitrogen accumulation.
- The study found that Symphytum officinale leaves contain polyphenols with stronger antioxidant activity than roots.
- The study observed treatment-dependent modulation of human exfoliated deciduous tooth stem cell behavior across various assays, without evident adverse effects.
Frequently asked questions
What is Boneset?
Boneset (Symphytum officinale) 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 Boneset?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Boneset; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Topical Symphytum officinale preparations show efficacy in treating acute back pain, knee osteoarthritis, ankle sprains, and myalgia with an excellent safety profile.
How strong is the evidence for Boneset?
The strongest finding for Boneset carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Boneset safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Boneset in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Boneset interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Boneset in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Boneset?
Boneset is also known as: Окопник лекарственный, Consoude officinale.
Is Boneset 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