|
|
| (Symphytum
officinale) |
| Common names: Assear,
Blackwort, Bruisewort, Consolida, Gum Plant, Healing Herb, Knitback,
Knitbone, Miracle Herb, Nipbone, Salsify, Slippery Root, Wallwort,
Yallus. |
| 
Comfrey |
Comfrey
in bloom |
|
| ©
2003 Barbara Rittiman |
©
2003 Karen Shelton |
|
|
|
|
| Parts
Used: Leaves, roots. |
Methods
Used: Water extraction, poultice. |
|
| Spiritual
Uses: The
Celts believed that Comfrey protects one's belongings from loss. Place
some of the root in your luggage to keep it safe while traveling.
|
Physical
Uses: Naturalized across North America.
Teas and compresses
of leaves or roots were used to speed healing of wounds and broken
bones. Poultices have been used to treat fresh wounds, burns, or
bruises.
Used as a mouthwash and
gargle, Comfrey may relieve sore throats and bleeding gums.
Use in the bath as a
skin treatment. Promotes healing.
If taken internally,
(see Warning & Cautions), it has been used for the treatment
of most stomach and digestive problems. When combined with Yarrow
(Achillea millefolium) and Plantain
(Plantago), it was used to stop internal hemorrhaging.
The tea was considered
to be a general tonic for the lungs and bronchial system, especially
chronic coughs.
|
Preparation:
LEAF TEA:
- Boil 1 cup
of water. Allow to sit for 30 seconds.
- Add 1 teaspoon
of chopped leaves and stir briefly. Cover.
- Allow to
steep for 20 minutes.
- Strain and
discard leaves.
- Divide into
4 equal doses.
- Use 1 dose
to moisten poultice, add to bath water or gargle with.
ROOT TEA:
- Boil 1 cup
of water.
- Add 1 teaspoon
of chopped and bruised roots and stir briefly. Cover.
- Allow to
simmer for 20 minutes.
- Strain and
discard roots.
- Divide into
4 equal doses.
- Use 1 dose
to moisten poultice, add to bath water or gargle with.
|
|
|
|
