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Comfrey
Botanical Name:
Symphtum officinale
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| Origins |
Herbalist Nicholas Culpeper wrote in his
medicinal scripts in the seventeenth century that this herb 'helpth
those that spit blood or make a bloody urine'. The root boiled in
water or wine was drunk to help solve all internal problems,
inwardly healing wounds, ulcers of the lungs and to help the flow of
blood. |
| Description |
Normally
grows wild near damp watersides. Comfrey has large hairy leaves
which can irritate the skin if touched. The stalk grows to three
feet (90 cm) high with pale purplish flowers. The leaves and roots
are used in herbal decoctions but the oil is extracted from the
leaves and stalks. |
| Therapeutic effects |
Containing allantoin, a cell regenerator, comfrey oil is
particularly valuable for the treatment of wounds and skin
disorders, including eczema, psoriasis, athlete's foot and torn
muscles. Helpful, too, in treating stretch marks and for menopausal
and menstrual problems. |
| Uses |
Masssage and compresses. |
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| * This image is 'eye candy' it does not represent the actual plant. |