Photo credit: amberdc
I have been hard at work for the last week putting together a local class. I’m talking about herbal remedies and using natural ways to take care of your family. All from a minimalist point of view.
I’m excited. And really nervous.
Herbs have been on my mind non-stop for the last week. With that, I thought it would be fitting to give you a little information on one of my favorite herbs, comfrey.
Comfrey stands out from the rest because of all its goodness. This herb is a staple in my house and I use it for many reasons.
I include it in all of my skin healing balms because of its ability to heal sores, abrasions and bruises quickly. Comfrey’s mucilagenous property makes it soothing to irritated skin. Think diaper rash, scrapes and new tattoos. 🙂
Several stories I’ve read reported that broken bones heal faster when a comfrey salve is applied. Another story pointed to comfrey tincture as a foot bath additive for stubbed toes or feet that have had something heavy dropped on them. Like a ridiculously heavy old Mac book, perhaps.
Comfrey promotes fast healing and much-needed pain relief.
Added to an ointment it also does very well for treating hemmorhoids. Yet another joy of giving birth. 😉
Comfrey infuses well into massage oil and does a great job at easing those tender spots. My dad created his own muscle rub using comfrey, arnica and devil’s claw that brings amazing relief to arthritis and other sore areas. My sister-in-law asks for a massage with it every time we see each other.
Used internally, it has many benefits, including healing stomach ulcers and hemmorhoids, as well as treating pernicious anemia with its high vitamin B12 content.
HOWEVER, young comfrey leaves contain poisons called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are carcinogenic, so consuming comfrey is highly cautioned against. Thankfully, these alkaloids are NOT absorbed through the skin.
Phew, right? There’s no way I’m giving this herb up.
How to use it
Use comfrey to create tinctures, decoctions and balms. A comfrey balm is an excellent tool to have in your herbal first-aid kit.
Cautions
Avoid consumption.
I’m off to do some heavy grocery shopping and put the finishing touches on my class. Wish me luck!
I think the only herb I like better than comfrey is calendula, bu most days it’s a tossup. I own numerous preparations with both herbs because they’re sooooo good for skin and healing. Great post!
Hi!
I´ve been reading about comfrey after birth bath (and other herbs) for a Mama-New Born and I am very confused. I´ve read good things versus bad things. I am not sure since the cautions are for ingestion or direct exposure of an open wound to the plant.
Would you recommend it? is it safe for both (most of all, for the baby?) Should I use comfrey leaf or root?
THANKS!!!
Hi Geraldina,
The cautions are for ingestion. If you make a strong infusion of the herb in water and pour it into your bath, it would be fine for both. I use comfrey leaf.
Many Thanks!!
Hi, I just ordered ground comfrey root and I plan to make bath with it, to help with joint pain that I have for a very long time now. But nowhere I can’t find what is the ratio, how much should I use per bath, and how long can I keep taking them. If you know, please let me know. Thank you, Maggie