Comfrey is one of the medicinal plants popularly known as larkspur, and it lives up to its name. It has been known for a long time and was used to treat joints, quickly heal fractures, and wounds. For the first time, many years BC, the Greeks began to use it as a medicine.

The beneficial properties and effectiveness of using larkspur roots and herbs have been proven by modern scientists, so they began to grow it intensively in European countries.

This plant belongs to the borage family and grows almost everywhere in Russia; some types of larkspur can be found in the Caucasus, as well as in Central Asia. Comfrey loves damp places, grows along the banks of rivers, lakes, swamps, and can also be found on the edges of forests. This is an unpretentious plant that can be grown in garden plots.

Comfrey, or larkspur, is a perennial herbaceous plant; as it grows, it develops a branched stem that can reach one and a half meters. The leaves have an oblong shape, they are up to 15 cm long and 5 cm wide.

The stem is erect, with sessile leaves located on it, the surface of the leaves and stem is covered with hard hairs. The flowers are pink or purple, collected in paniculate inflorescences, flowering time is from May to June.

After flowering, fruits in the form of nuts are formed. The root is dark brown in color, white-gray when cut, and has a sweetish astringent taste. Larkspur propagates by seeds and by dividing the root, which is thickened along its entire length.

Both the root and leaves are used in the preparation of medicines. The root can be harvested in the spring, before the leaves begin to grow, or in the fall, when the comfrey has faded. It is customary to collect the green mass of leaves during the flowering of larkspur.

Since the rhizome contains a large amount of water, drying it takes a long time. The rhizome is dug up, washed well, the small roots that are on the surface are cut off, then cut and dried indoors.

Gallery: comfrey (25 photos)

Chemical composition of comfrey

Comfrey root is of greatest value for the preparation of medicines. It consists of the following components:

Medicinal properties

Truly this herbaceous plant has unique properties. It can be used for the following purposes:

Application of the plant

Preparations prepared on the basis of comfrey have shown their effectiveness in the treatment of fractures, coughs, bronchitis, kidneys, and lung diseases, including tuberculosis.

When used externally, it is used for various skin diseases, cracks, trophic ulcers, purulent rashes and stomatitis. And also for wounds, bruises, varicose veins, treatment of the musculoskeletal system.

In terms of its healing properties, comfrey is incomparable to any other plants. The use of plant roots in medicinal preparations has become widespread.

It is able to treat joint diseases, has anti-inflammatory properties, heals various wounds well and quickly, and is used as an antirheumatic agent. This antibiotic, created by nature, plays a big role in the healing of cartilage, cleanses the affected area of ​​the body and starts the process of cell regeneration.

Infusions are prepared from the roots of comfrey; to do this, you need to take the crushed roots of the plant, pour boiling water over it and leave for several hours to infuse. After this time, the finished solution is drained and filtered, and the roots are re-filled with boiling water for one hour.

Drink two tablespoons of the infusion several times a day. For oral administration, it is used in the treatment of cough, bronchitis, and is good for removing mucus from the respiratory tract.

How to prepare the tincture

To prepare the tincture, you need crushed larkspur root and vodka. You only need fresh root; you will need half a glass of it and a standard bottle of vodka. The prepared product is removed to infuse in a dark, warm place for 10 days.

After this period, the tincture is ready for use. Take orally in strictly defined doses, no more than 20-30 drops at a time, several times a day before meals, mixing with a small amount of water.

This drug promotes rapid recovery from various diseases, in particular, fractures, dislocations, purulent lesions of the skin. The use of the drug can be combined with taking baths, compresses, and so on.

The tincture is effective for chronic diseases such as stomach and duodenal ulcers, bronchitis, and diarrhea. Larkspur tincture improves digestion, promotes rapid metabolism, and also improves appetite.

Root decoction

Decoctions are also prepared from comfrey roots, which are no less useful in the treatment of rheumatism, gout, and skin diseases.

To prepare this remedy, take the crushed root, add boiled water and boil for 10 minutes over an open fire. The finished product must be filtered through cheesecloth.

A decoction is used for various bleeding and bladder problems. It can be used to wash wounds, abrasions, and bruises that are accompanied by hemorrhage.

Application in cosmetology. At home, the decoction is used to cleanse the skin of the face, eliminate dryness, relieve various irritations and redness caused by the negative influence of the external environment. It gives good results in case of hair loss, restoring it, giving elasticity and beauty.

Based on the roots and herbs of comfrey, remedies are prepared that can help with other diseases.

Types of comfrey

In addition to comfrey, there are other types of it.

The forests of the Caucasus are considered the birthplace of Caucasian comfrey. Unlike medicinal, it is used to decorate farmsteads; it is not used for medical purposes. This is also a herbaceous plant, reaching a height of up to 1 m, but it blooms earlier, in April, and the duration of its flowering is until frost.

Foreign comfrey also grows in the Caucasus, is not used for medicinal purposes, and is mainly used to feed poultry and pigs.

Large comfrey grows in the mixed forests of the Caucasus, a frost-resistant plant, flowering time is May, the flowers are mostly yellow.

Preparation of medications and contraindications

Medicinal plants are practically not used in their natural form. Before the preparations are manufactured, they undergo additional processing, taking into account what dosage form they will have.

They are boiled and infused in water or alcohol. In pharmaceutical factories, the necessary substances are obtained in natural form from comfrey roots through special processing. They are then used to prepare solutions, tablets, and ointments.

In pharmacies you can purchase larkspur-based medicines both with and without prescriptions. Medicinal preparations containing this plant are also available for sale.

Despite all the positive qualities of this truly miraculous plant and medications prepared on its basis, it has its contraindications:

• It should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• The dosage must be strictly observed and not used after the expiration date.
• Before use, be sure to consult your doctor.
• If you have an individual intolerance, stop using it.

Every person, when using the plant correctly, can get a positive result, regardless of age.

Comfrey is the official name of the plant that many people know as larkspur. People were able to appreciate its beneficial properties during wars and epidemics, since it can be used to effectively treat severe fractures and wounds. Therefore, every field doctor always had comfrey with him. The healing effect of this plant is associated with its effect on bones and joints. With timely use, damaged tissues begin to quickly recover, so it is often used for fractures, dislocated joints and bruises. In other words, this plant is ideal for situations where it is necessary to disinfect a wound and speed up the process of tissue regeneration.

Description and photo of comfrey

Comfrey is one of the famous representatives of herbaceous plants that can be found in Europe and Western Asia. In our country, this plant is represented everywhere in the European part, in the south of Western Siberia, in the Crimea and in the Caucasus. The favorite habitats of this plant are deciduous forests, clearings, wet meadows, shores of reservoirs, as well as forest ravines and the outskirts of swamps. It often grows near houses, in gardens and orchards, as well as in waste storage areas where high humidity prevails.

Comfrey is a classic perennial belonging to the borage family. During the growth process, it forms a branched stem that can grow up to 1 m. At the bottom, the plant has a tetrahedral shape, it is decorated with large oblong leaves, having a length of 10-15 cm and a width of 5 cm. The foliage located in the lower part of the stem has long winged petioles, the leaves located in the upper part are sessile. A characteristic feature of the leaves and stems of comfrey is the presence of stiff hairs.

An adult plant has a short black root with a thickening. At the cut site, the rhizome is white, the pulp has a sweetish astringent taste.

During the growing season, small tubular-bell-shaped flowers are formed. They grow as panicles at the ends of stems and branches. They resemble a one-sided curl that remains closed until flowering. When this time comes, the flowers begin to transform: at this moment they can acquire a purple, lilac or violet hue. Flowers usually begin to open between May and June.

At the seed ripening stage, it forms four smooth black nuts, reaching a length of 4-5 mm. They usually ripen in July-September. Each adult comfrey can produce 800-1000 seeds per season. For propagation, you can use seeds or divide the rhizome.

The roots and leaves of comfrey are used for medicinal purposes. Collecting roots should be done in early spring before the leaves bloom. They can also be prepared in the fall, but only after the flowering time has passed. The collected raw materials must be thoroughly washed, cut and left in the drying room. This process takes a long time, since during growth the comfrey roots accumulate large amount of moisture. Comfrey leaves are collected during flowering.

The roots of this plant are of great value due to the presence of biologically active substances in their composition: allantoin, alkaloid cynoglossin, saponins, tannins, etc.

Among specialists this the family is called Symphytum, which translated from Greek means “to grow together.” And this is quite logical, since the properties of comfrey allow you to treat bone fractures. The species itself is called officinale, which can be translated as “medicinal.”

The name of this plant, which is popular among residents of our country, can be explained by the places where comfrey grows. Most often it can be found in damp, low-lying places. It is also known under other names - borage, apothecary's grease, right-handed.

Comfrey officinalis: application

Traditional healers have long been able to become acquainted with the beneficial properties of comfrey root. Preparations made from these raw materials are very effective in the treatment of bone fractures, wounds, kidney diseases, coughs, bronchitis, and pulmonary tuberculosis. They can also help with inflammation of the stomach and intestines, diarrhea, and restore metabolism. As an external agent they used in the fight against such diseases, How:

• stomatitis;
• purulent rashes;
• skin cracks;
• trophic ulcers.

For internal consumption, comfrey-based products are used in cases where it is necessary to achieve rapid bone fusion and tissue healing. Herbal decoctions and infusions have unique properties, thanks to which you can stop bleeding. They also help with hemoptysis, chronic inflammation of the respiratory system, as well as with the development of gastrointestinal diseases. External use of these drugs is associated with the treatment of conditions such as:

• dislocations;
• fractures;
• bruises;
• inflammation of the veins;
• skin diseases;
• ulcers;
• wounds;
• rheumatic pains.

Uses of comfrey root

No other plant can compare with this plant in the treatment of joint diseases, because it has healing, anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic effect.

Such healing properties of comfrey herb can be explained by the fact that it contains a large amount of allantoin. This is a unique natural antibiotic that has a powerful bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect, perfectly cleanses the lesion, and triggers the formation of new, healthy cells.

This plant is indispensable in the treatment of fractures, severe bruises and dislocations, as well as joint diseases, since it has the ability to relieve inflammation and swelling. But most importantly, it stimulates the healing process of cartilage.

Comfrey root infusion

For this remedy you need to take one tablespoon of crushed roots and pour one glass of hot boiled water. Next, the mixture is allowed to brew for 6-8 hours and filtered. When the roots increase in size, they are again filled with 1 cup of boiling water, but now Infusion time is reduced to 30 minutes. After this, the infusion is filtered again. After these steps, take two parts of the infusion and combine. Drink two tablespoons of the finished product every two to three hours.

This infusion helps in the treatment of chronic bronchitis and catarrh of the respiratory tract. Effectively fights inflammatory processes and facilitates the process of removing phlegm.

Comfrey root tincture

For this remedy you will need half a glass of fresh crushed roots, which need to be filled with vodka 40° in the amount of 0.5 liters. Next, the mixture is placed in a dark, cool place. After 10 days, the finished tincture should be strained. The product is drunk 20-30 drops. Dosage regimen: 3-5 times a day before meals, adding to a small amount of water.

With the help of infusion and tincture of the comfrey plant, you can speed up the healing process for bone fractures, dislocated joints, severe bruises, osteomyelitis, as well as wounds and purulent periodontal disease.

These remedies are also effective as baths, rinses, lotions, compresses, which can be combined with oral administration.

The drugs can alleviate the patient’s condition with chronic inflammation, stomach and duodenal ulcers, diarrhea, dysentery, chronic bronchitis - they relieve inflammation and pain in the intestines.

The beneficial properties of the infusion from this medicinal plant are manifested in improving metabolism, digestion and increasing appetite.

Comfrey root decoction

To prepare this remedy, you will need 1 tablespoon of roots, which must be poured with one glass of hot boiled water. Next, the mixture is placed on the stove and boiled over low heat for 10 minutes. The finished broth must be filtered.

The product is intended for internal and external use in the treatment of conditions such as:

• rheumatism;
• gout;
• wounds;
• boils;
• ulcers and other skin diseases.

Also, a decoction of comfrey root can help people who have uterine, hemorrhoidal and other types of bleeding, and there are also signs of bladder inflammation.

It is useful to use a decoction of a medicinal plant to eliminate nosebleeds. To do this, you will need tampons, which are moistened in the broth and then inserted into the nostrils. This remedy can also treat skin wounds, abrasions, bruises with hemorrhage.

Also, a decoction of the herb can be used for cosmetic purposes. To do this, lotions are made to eliminate the effect of dry skin, as well as poultices that are effective against irritation, redness and peeling of the skin.

With regular use of a decoction of the herb, you can improve the condition of hair that has a problem such as baldness - hair loss.

Conclusion

Comfrey is a fairly well-known plant in our country, which is often used as an effective remedy in the treatment of fractures. Moreover, the most valuable part of comfrey is roots from which preparations are prepared. The healing properties of comfrey are associated with its ability to act on damaged tissue, triggering the mechanism of their regeneration. Therefore, this remedy is appropriate to use not only for minor injuries, such as wounds and abrasions, but also for more serious conditions, such as fractures.

Infusions, tinctures and decoctions are prepared based on the roots and leaves of comfrey, which can also help with other painful conditions. Therefore, for inflammatory processes occurring in internal organs, as well as weakened immunity, many experts advise using preparations based on this plant.

Medicinal plant comfrey

Name: the Latin name of the genus comes from the Greek word “symphyton” - accreting. This property of comfrey was known back in the Middle Ages. This is what Odo of Mena writes:

“The root, which was excellently boiled in hot plums,
Mixed with honey, it heals fractures and ruptures...
If anyone doubts that there is so much strength in comfrey,
Let him cook the crushed roots with boiled meat...
You will help broken or crushed bones with medicine.
If you drink comfrey mixed with wine, pepper and honey,
Then ruptures and wounds are treated with this application;
A broken bone is held together by grass and old ointment.”

Description: Of the 20-25 species of this genus, 17 grow in the territory of the former USSR. Crimean comfrey(Symphytum tauricum Willd.) grows in the European part of Russia, mainly in its southern half, as well as in the North Caucasus. Comfrey heart-shaped(Symphytum cordatum Waldst. et Kit. ex Willd.) quite often found in the Carpathians, occasionally in the Khmelnitsky, Ternopil, Zhytomyr regions; outside the former USSR - in Hungary and Romania. Three Caucasian endemic species are confined to forest cenoses: comfrey grandiflora(S. grandiflorum DC), wandering comfrey(S. peregrinum Ledeb.) - both with pale yellow flowers, Caucasian comfrey(S. caucasicum Bieb.) - a shaggy-fluffy plant with blue flowers. Grows in the forests of the Black Sea region and southern Podolia eastern comfrey(S. orientale L.) with whitish corollas.

Symphytum azureum
Photo by M.Barbuhatti

There are plants that, without exaggeration, can be called a miracle of nature. Comfrey, from the borage family, is just like that. Comfrey has been known in folk medicine for a very long time; its root contains many biologically active substances. Comfrey has an enveloping, emollient and anti-inflammatory effect. A decoction of comfrey roots has the ability to accelerate the restoration of damaged tissue, especially bone. Comfrey is characterized by high yield, winter hardiness, and grows back well after mowing. Green mass is characterized by a high content of protein, vitamins, and ash elements. Comfrey can be used both as green fodder and for making silage and grass meal. The nutritional value of the green mass of comfrey is not inferior to legumes. In addition, comfrey can be classified as a primary honey plant. In nature, there are many types of comfrey with similar properties. The most famous are comfrey and hard comfrey. The following types of comfrey are the most decorative.

Comfrey is hard, rough, or rough- Symphytum asperum It grows in natural conditions only in the Caucasus, in the subalpine zone, in meadows and forest edges, in damp places, along river banks, near springs and mountain streams, among bushes. In the European part of Russia it is found as an alien and wild species. It is distinguished by blue flowers and more rigid pubescence; there are no running winged leaf petioles on the stem. Hard comfrey has become known mainly as a forage plant. It is cultivated in many countries, and the history of its appearance in culture is quite interesting. As an ornamental plant, hard comfrey was grown in the St. Petersburg Botanical Garden at the end of the 18th century. From there, its seeds were sent to England by the court gardener D. Bush simply as the seeds of a garden ornamental plant called comfrey. In England they quickly appreciated it as an excellent fodder plant and began to receive large harvests. At the beginning of the 19th century, it turned out that this was not medicinal comfrey, but hard comfrey - the species that grows in the Caucasus. From England, comfrey came to many countries, and not only to Europe, but also to the USA, Japan and even New Zealand. Photo by Kirill Tkachenko

Foreign comfrey- Symphytum regrinum Ledeb. It grows wild only in the Caucasus, in Talysh. This species is very close to hard comfrey, but differs in less rigid pubescence. Some botanists do not recognize it as a separate species, but consider it a variety of hard comfrey. According to other botanists, it is a hybrid between rigid comfrey and medicinal comfrey. In England it was called Russian comfrey and was valued as excellent feed for poultry and pigs and as an excellent material for compost. It was recommended to grow it in small areas, along fences, near buildings, in vacant lots. Interest in it especially increased during the Second World War. In 1953, Lawrence D. Hills’ book “Russian Comfrey” was published in London. One hundred tons per acre of livestock feed or compost for the farm, garden or smallholder.”

Caucasian comfrey- Symphytum caucasicum Bieb. From the forests of the Caucasus. Long-rhizomatous, tall (up to 100 cm) perennial. It grows from early April until frost and forms dense thickets. Comfrey blooms profusely (bright blue flowers) in June - July, is cold-resistant, rarely gets sick (brown spot), propagates by cuttings of rhizomes in April and August and by sowing seeds before winter. The plant is very promising for high group plantings in shade and partial shade on sufficiently moist, loose soils; it can be used to decorate outbuildings. There is a white-flowered variety. Photo by Kirill Tkachenko

Comfrey large- Symphytum grandiflorum DC Homeland: Caucasus. Mixed mountain forests. A low-maintenance, carpet-like shrub for shady areas of the garden. Numerous shoots form carpets 20-30 cm high. The leaf is oval, dark green, covered with hairs. The inflorescences are creamy yellow, tube-shaped, collected in dense bunches. Blooms in May. Grows in light shade, semi-shade and shade, and with sufficient humidity in sunny conditions. cool, fresh, sometimes dry place. Humus clay soil is optimal. The plant is unpretentious. Comfrey is easy to care for and weeds do not grow in dense carpets. Water in dry weather. Apply compost sparingly. Propagated by separating shoots and dividing the bush. Used in the shade of trees and walls. Winter-hardy down to -23 degrees. Partners are only competitive plants: Brunnera, Epimedium, Hosta, Waldsteinia. Variety" Hidcole Blue"-blue-white inflorescences, wide bush, 30-40 cm. Grows in wet flower beds. S. grandiflorum "Goldsmith" shown in the photograph.

Comfrey officinalis- Symphytum officinale Widely distributed in Eastern Europe, less commonly in the Caucasus, Western Siberia, and Central Asia. It grows in damp places - in damp meadows and ravines, in floodplains and damp forests. It is found mainly in the black soil zone, less common north of it. Short-rhizome plant. It grows from early April until frost; occasionally the leaves overwinter. The stems reach a height of 1 m. The leaves are large, oblong, running down the stem, making it seem winged. Stems and leaves are rough with pubescence. Dark purple, less often pink flowers are collected in inflorescences-curls. The seeds are black, shiny, 4-5 mm long. The bush (up to 60 cm high) grows quickly and blooms profusely in May - July. The plant propagates by seeds, possibly by self-sowing and dividing the bush in spring and August; It is not demanding on soils, does not get sick, and is cold-resistant. Photo EDSR.

Location: comfrey can grow in both light and light partial shade. Comfrey roots can easily penetrate any corner of the garden. If it is excessively annoying, cut the plant at the root, and in those places where you would not like to see it again, sprinkle the cut area with salt.

The soil: Comfrey grows well in any soil, but does not like soil that is too acidic or heavy. Therefore, the soil must be deeply cultivated.

Reproduction: seeds do not need stratification. When sowing in spring, seedlings appear after 2-3 weeks, but, as a rule, they are quite rare. Pre-winter crops produce denser seedlings. In the first year, a rosette of leaves is formed; starting from the second year, the plants bloom and bear fruit. Comfrey grows late in the spring, usually in May. Blooms in June, seeds ripen in August. Collecting a large number of seeds is very difficult, because they do not ripen at the same time, and when ripe, they immediately fall off.

Comfrey reproduces very easily vegetatively, by cuttings of rhizomes and roots; comfrey roots are capable of producing root suckers. New plants can be grown even from a small section of the root collar. For propagation, it is better to take plants 3-4 years old. In England, this method of propagating comfrey is practiced: pieces of roots are placed in a damp bag, which is placed in a warm, dark and damp place. Soon shoots appear, when they reach 1.5-2.0 cm in length, they are planted in the ground.

Usage: very promising in group plantings, near fences and outbuildings.

And: liquid comfrey fertilizer.

Comfrey leaves and stems contain large amounts of plant protein. From them you can prepare an excellent liquid fertilizer, which, along with nitrogen, contains many other minerals, as well as microelements. To do this, place two full handfuls of dried comfrey greens in a plastic or earthenware container and fill with 10 liters of heated water. The mixture is kept for three to four days to ferment. Then it is diluted with water in a ratio of 1: 3 or 1: 5 (depending on the need for feeding), and garden plants are watered with this solution every two weeks. The resulting fertilizer cannot be used without dilution - in this form it is very caustic and plants will not absorb it. You can feed indoor and balcony plants with comfrey fertilizer, diluting it 5 times (more is possible).

In addition to the fermented solution, you can also use fermented solution. It is prepared like this: take 1 kg of fresh or 200 g of dry leaves and stems of comfrey and fill them with 10 liters of water, preferably rainwater. After three or four days it all turns into a sticky mess, and after a week the fertilizer is ready. For dry soil it is diluted in a ratio of 1:20, for wet soil - 1:10.

Liquid fertilizers are applied to moist soil only on cloudy days. Fermented comfrey fertilizer is beneficial to all plants, but it has a particularly beneficial effect on celery, cabbage and tomatoes. Tomatoes can be fed daily, adding 0.5 liters per plant at the root. All soil inhabitants love feeding with comfrey, so it is useful to add it little by little to the compost.

If you do not want to waste time and energy preparing fertilizer, then cut off the large leaves of the comfrey before flowering and mulch the ground with them.
used materials from the article by S. Kurganskaya “Comfrey makes a career” // “Flora” - 2001 - No. 5

Comfrey officinalis. Botanical illustration from the book “Köhler’s Medizinal-Pflanzen”, 1887.

Ancient sources indicate that comfrey was widely used in Ancient Rome as a powerful remedy that provided soldiers with wound healing. The plant was also noted by the ancient Greek physician Dioscorides. And, despite the fact that even at the dawn of the development of medicine it was known about the medicinal properties of comfrey, its study by scientists began only in the 19th century. But traditional medicine has never lost sight of this medicinal herb and recommended the use of comfrey for joints and in the fight against inflammation.

Botanical description

You can find the herbaceous plant in forests and ravines, in clearings and meadows, near swamps and rivers. Comfrey can grow near housing. He feels comfortable in gardens and even vegetable gardens. You can distinguish the medicinal plant, popularly nicknamed larkspur, by the following characteristic features.

• Stem. The branched, erect stem can reach one meter. It is densely covered with light dense hairs.
• Leaves . Large petiolate leaves grow in the lower part of the stem, the length of which reaches 15 cm and the width - 5 cm. The upper leaves of comfrey are sessile. They are rough to the touch and have stiff hairs. When the leaves are rubbed, a faint cucumber smell appears.
• Flowers. Bell-shaped flowers form paniculate inflorescences. They are located at the ends of the stem and multiple branches of the plant. Comfrey flowers can be purple, blue, and sometimes lilac and even purple.
• Fruits. The large black fruits are oval or round in shape. Four to five such nuts are formed in one flower.
• Root. The plant has a black rhizome with long root shoots. The cut of the root is white, very juicy, and sweetish in taste.

The root is mainly used for treatment. However, in folk medicine it is believed that the leaves also bring benefits. The rhizome is dug up in early spring or after the growing season, in the fall. The leaves are harvested during the flowering period of the grass.

The use of comfrey in folk medicine

The medicinal properties of comfrey are dictated by the content of biologically active components that give the plant various healing effects. Among them is allantoin. This substance is a natural antibiotic with pronounced antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Allantoin gives larkspur the ability to accelerate regeneration and restore bone tissue. This is why comfrey herb is useful for treating pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. The healing properties of comfrey include the following positive effects on the body:

• restoration of bones and soft tissues;
• stimulation of healing of injuries and wounds;
• relieving pain, spasms;
• relief of inflammation.

In official medicine, a variety of ointments, creams, and balms are prepared from comfrey, intended for the treatment of joints. Particularly popular is the balm based on larkspur (comfrey) Dr. Taisa. The herb is appreciated by homeopaths. On its basis, a homeopathic drug for the treatment of ODA, “Symphytum” ointment, was created.

Comfrey is used not only in medicine. The herb is used in cosmetology. Medicinal larkspur extract is added to the bath to ensure effective softening and moisturizing of the skin. The aromatic procedure eliminates acne, inflammation, and promotes tissue regeneration.

Contraindications

Larkspur can cause serious harm. It is important to remember that comfrey is poisonous. The plant contains alkaloids (consolidine, cynoglossin, lasiocarpine), which have carcinogenic properties and, in the case of large accumulations in the body, can lead to tumors. Therefore, the plant is not used for oncology. In addition, these substances can affect the central nervous system. Therefore, side effects from the abuse of comfrey sometimes manifest themselves in the form of paralysis and difficulty breathing. Doctors give the following contraindications to the use of larkspur:

• pregnancy;
• hypotension;
• liver diseases;
• larkspur allergy;
• lactation period.

The use of larkspur must always be agreed with a doctor. Even when it comes to using external means.

Recipes

Comfrey roots are used to prepare medicinal infusions and various decoctions. They are used as raw materials for the production of ointments. A medicinal powder is prepared from the roots and even the juice is squeezed out. And fresh leaves, rich in ascorbic acid, are used not only in medicine, but also in cooking. They are added to salads to give the dish a spring taste. Traditional healers recommend the following recipes for medicines.

For joint pathologies

Peculiarities . To reduce joint pain, reduce inflammation caused by arthritis, arthrosis or rheumatism, it is recommended to resort to healing ointment. This product is used to apply compresses. A thin layer of medicinal ointment is applied to the affected area. Compress paper is applied on top. The joint is then wrapped in a woolen scarf. This compress is kept for at least four hours. The event is repeated daily for ten days.

Compound:

• comfrey root - two tablespoons;
• pork fat - four tablespoons;
• pharmacy "Dimexide" - one teaspoon.

Preparation

1. The root is carefully ground to obtain a powder.
2. Comfrey is combined with pork fat.
3. Add Dimexide.
4. The ointment is mixed.

After injuries and skin ailments

Peculiarities . Larkspur decoction promotes bone regeneration in case of fractures. It is used to eliminate pain, relieve inflammation after sprains and bruises. The drug is recommended for washing bleeding wounds. This remedy will help get rid of skin problems and effectively speed up the process of boil ripening. Therapeutic compresses will help relieve the pain of polyarthritis. Apply compresses for four hours, carefully wrapping the source of discomfort with a woolen scarf. It is recommended to repeat the procedure ten times.

Compound:

• comfrey root - 100 g;
• water - 1 l.

Preparation

1. The larkspur is slightly chopped.
2. The rhizomes are filled with water and simmered over low heat for ten minutes.
3. The broth is filtered.

For osteomyelitis and varicose veins

Peculiarities . For the treatment of osteomyelitis, as well as varicose veins, compresses from a medicinal decoction are recommended. Such compresses are applied throughout the night. The recommended course of treatment can last from two to three weeks, depending on the severity of the pathology.

Compound:

• comfrey root - one tablespoon;
• water - glass.

Preparation

1. The dry root is slightly crushed.
2. It is placed in water and boiled for 20 minutes.
3. The solution is filtered.

For bone tuberculosis and gout

Peculiarities . For the treatment of bone tuberculosis and gout, internal administration of larkspur infusion is recommended. This remedy can be used to treat rheumatism and arthrosis. Take the infusion one tablespoon at a time. The medicine is taken three times during the day and preferably before meals. One course lasts on average two weeks.

Compound:

• comfrey root - 15 g;
• milk - 250 ml.

Preparation

1. Comfrey rhizome is ground to a powder.
2. The milk is brought to a boil.
3. Chopped larkspur is poured with hot milk.
4. Cover the container and leave for half an hour.
5. Filter the drink.

For pain due to intervertebral hernia

Peculiarities . For the treatment of intervertebral hernias, compresses made from larkspur tincture with vodka are recommended. In case of severe pain, it is necessary to rub the concerned areas with the drug. In addition, for ten days, compresses from the tincture are applied to those areas of the spine in which hernias are found. After the course, take a break for ten days. Then the treatment is repeated. To prepare comfrey tincture at home, use the following recipe.

Compound:

• comfrey root - 50 g;
• vodka - 0.7 l.

Preparation

1. The dry root needs to be slightly soaked in plain water.
2. The soaked raw materials are poured with vodka.
3. The medicine is infused, shaking occasionally, for two weeks.
4. Be sure to filter.

For bleeding

Peculiarities . To stop bleeding, it is recommended to apply powder obtained by grinding larkspur root directly onto the wound. This product will disinfect the wound and accelerate healing. But, as reviews show, fresh comfrey juice copes with bleeding faster and more effectively. This liquid can be used not only for wounds, but also in case of nosebleeds. To eliminate the problem, turundas are prepared. They are soaked in larkspur juice and inserted into the nasal passages. When the gauze is completely filled with blood, the turundas are replaced with new ones. This can be repeated three times.

Compound:

• larkspur root (exclusively freshly dug) - 100 g.

Preparation

1. Comfrey is carefully washed under water and cleaned.
2. Fresh raw materials are crushed.
3. The pulp is placed in cheesecloth and the juice is squeezed out.

For prostatitis

Peculiarities . Herbalists recommend using suppositories made from larkspur and black poplar buds to treat prostatitis. This remedy provides a strong antiseptic effect, thanks to poplar buds, and an effective reduction in the inflammatory process due to the inclusion of comfrey in suppositories. Place candles for a month, every other day, at night.

Compound:

• cocoa butter - 30 g;
• comfrey root - 30 g;
• black poplar buds - 20 g.

Preparation

1. Cocoa butter is melted.
2. Powders from comfrey roots and poplar buds are poured into this mixture.
3. The drug is mixed thoroughly.
4. The mixture is placed on a sheet of foil. By rolling the foil, a “tube” with a diameter of 10-12 mm is formed.
5. The drug in foil is placed in the refrigerator.
6. Waiting for it to harden.
7. Then the foil is unrolled. The frozen tube is cut into “candles”, 3-4 cm long.
8. From the components indicated in the recipe, you should get ten suppositories.

Traditional medicine recommends taking comfrey preparations orally for gastritis and bronchitis. However, the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) withdrew all internal medicines from comfrey from sale at the beginning of this century. This was due to the discovery of carcinogenic properties in the plant, that is, the ability to cause tumors. Therefore, taking comfrey internally is dangerous.

However, if you have larkspur growing in your garden, then do not rush to dig up the roots. An effective “lifesaver” at your fingertips. Pay attention to the leaves. If your lower back hurts or the joint makes itself felt, then treatment with comfrey can help you. Simply tear fresh leaves into pieces and apply to the sore spot. Wrap in clean gauze and leave the compress for 10-12 hours.

Comfrey is a medicinal plant known since the Middle Ages. Paracelsus (1493–1541), a famous healer of that time, widely used it in the treatment of bone diseases, cancer, and ulcers.

The botanical name of comfrey contains the root symphein, which translates as “to grow together.” The Slavs called this plant differently - larkspur, steelroot, larkspur, larkspur, from these names it is easy to guess that use of comfrey necessary for diseases associated with bone damage.

Where does comfrey grow?

In nature, it is distributed in Europe, in the south of Western Siberia, Kazakhstan and the Caucasus. It prefers wet meadows, nitrogen-rich soil, comfrey likes to grow near ditches and ravines, along river banks, is often found in front gardens due to its decorative value, and settles independently in garden plots near compost heaps.

Description

This is a perennial plant comfrey root large, juicy, black-brown, the stem reaches a height of up to one meter, branched, covered with stiff hairs. The leaves are large, wrinkled, alternate, 10–15 cm long and 3–5 cm wide. The flowers are pink, blue or dirty purple in curls, bloom in May–July.

The medicinal raw materials are roots and sometimes leaves. The roots are collected in the fall, only fresh leaves are used. The roots are washed in running water, cut into pieces and dried. The shelf life of dried roots is three years.

The plant contains alkaloids, so the use of comfrey preparations internally in large doses can cause paralysis of the central nervous system. Tannins, mucus, resins, inulin, organic acids and essential oil were also found in the roots.

Healing properties of comfrey

Comfrey has an anti-inflammatory, wound-cleansing, epithelializing, hemostatic effect. Preparations from this plant have the property of enhancing the regeneration of various tissues, promoting rapid bone fusion, eliminating inflammatory processes that affect all bone elements (osteomyelitis), and restoring the periosteum. Comfrey helps with ligament ruptures, dislocations and sprains.

It is recommended to be used for pulmonary tuberculosis, for diseases of the upper respiratory tract, it facilitates the discharge of sputum, treats chronic inflammation of the stomach and intestines, improves digestion, and enhances epithelization of the mucous membrane.

All listed properties of comfrey are actively used in folk medicine, but in practical medicine it has remained unrecognized.

Comfrey treatment

This plant does not tolerate boiling. When preparing napara (1 tablespoon of raw material per glass of boiling water), the drug is infused in a warm place for 4–6 hours, filtered, and 2 tablespoons are taken. l. 6 times a day before meals.

For external use use:

• Pasta. Pour 50–100 grams of powdered roots with a small amount of boiling water, add a few drops of vegetable oil. Use warmly as a compress for damage to the spine and intervertebral discs, for gout and rheumatic pain, for tense joints and muscles;
• Compress. Pour 100 g of root powder into a liter of water, boil for 10 minutes, strain. Use warm for fractures, dislocations, joint pain;
• Ointment. 1 tbsp. l. root powder is mixed with the same amount of rendered lard. The ointment should be stored in the refrigerator.