ENGLISH NAME: Common Comfrey
LATIN NAME: Symphytum
officinale
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Kostival
lékařský
Turkey: Karakafes otu
Bulgaria: Черен оман (Cheren oman)
Georgia: სამკურნალო სიმფიტუმი (Samkurnalo
simphitumi)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Lowland and
foothill zones in temperate areas
Elevation: 200–1,200 meters
Terrain: Wet meadows,
forest edges, ditches, and pond banks with rich, moist soils
DESCRIPTION:
Common Comfrey is a perennial plant reaching 60–120 cm in height, with rough,
hairy, lance-shaped leaves and bell-shaped flowers that range in color from
purple and pink to white. It blooms from late spring into early summer and
thrives in moist, shady areas. The roots are thick, black, and mucilaginous.
USABLE PARTS: Leaf (external
use only)
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used externally for its wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and
cell-regenerating effects. Applied to sprains, bruises, muscle injuries, and
joint inflammation. Contains allantoin, which stimulates tissue repair.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Internal use is not recommended due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids,
which may cause liver damage. External use should be short-term and only on
unbroken skin.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Often used with calendula or plantain in salves for wound care. Avoid combining
with other herbs that affect the liver.
PREPARATION:
Leaves are dried and used in the preparation of ointments, poultices,
compresses, and herbal salves. Infused oils may also be used for topical
application.
HARVEST TIME:
Late spring to early summer, when the plant is in full leaf but before
flowering fully completes.
HARVEST METHOD:
Cut mature, healthy leaves using scissors or a knife. Wear gloves, as hairs can
be irritating. Avoid harvesting near polluted water or roadsides.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry leaves in the shade, away from moisture. Store in airtight containers,
ideally in a cool, dark place. Label for external use only.