Comfrey shouldn't be used in any form during pregnancy or nursing due to the risk of liver damage to infants. 4-4-2009;139(13-14):210-211. However, comfrey can also contain toxic substances called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that cause liver damage, cancer, and death. Oral use of comfrey is not recommended because of potential liver damage. Symphyti) in the treatment of ankle distorsions: Results of a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. The Herbal Academy makes neither medical claim, nor intends to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Glass bowl with a lid Comfrey has been cultivated as a green vegetable and has been used as an herbal medicine for more than 2,000 years. View abstract. Wang YP, Yan J, Fu PP, Chou MW. Influence of moderate physical exertion on subacute low back pain, after Symphytum officinale ointment treatment. We cover all you need to know in this article. Commercial comfrey sale and distribution is restricted in Germany and Canada because of its substantial toxicity. Kucera, M., Barna, M., Horacek, O., Kalal, J., Kucera, A., and Hladikova, M. Topical symphytum herb concentrate cream against myalgia: a randomized controlled double-blind clinical study. View abstract. International Journal of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, (4), 135-141. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpam.2018.11.002. Other prescription medicines that may harm the liver include: Some supplements may also harm the liver, including: It is essential to carefully read a supplement's ingredient list and nutrition facts panel to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included. The efficacy and safety of a homeopathic gel in the treatment of acute low back pain: a multi-centre, randomised, double-blind comparative clinical trial. (2001). For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. View abstract. Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with comfrey does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product. Phytomedicine, 14(1), 2-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2006.11.006, Jedlinszki, N., Balzs, B., Csnyi, E., & Csupor, D. (2017). Comfrey contains chemicals that can cause liver damage, lung problems, or cancer. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. There is no daily recommended allowance for comfrey, sold in creams, ointments, gels, and salves. A later study of 133 peoplefound some evidence that a topical combination of comfrey extract and tannic acid led to reduced knee pain. They help us to understand how people use the website and give us the ability to provide targeted marketing to you. Comfrey contains chemicals that cause serious liver damage when taken by mouth. HTB; 2021 2; Youtube; Twitter; Facebook; ; Adv.Ther 2000;17(4):204-210. This is because only a small amount of the pyrrolizidine alkaloids are absorbed through the skin (. Efficacy and safety of comfrey root extract ointment in the treatment of acute upper or lower back pain: results of a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, multicentre trial. View abstract. All rights reserved. randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multi-clinical trial. 12 drops peppermint (Mentha piperita) essential oil Staiger C. Comfrey root: from tradition to modern clinical trials. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. What Are the Side Effects of Comfrey Cream? Arzneimittelforschung. Discontinue use if a rash develops. Jurcu, R., & Jurcu, I. Efficacy and safety of comfrey root extract ointment in the treatment of acute upper or lower back pain: Results of a double-blind, randomised, placebo controlled, multicentre trial. View abstract. Follow all directions on the product label and package. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. Taking comfrey along with a medication that can harm the liver might increase the risk of liver damage. 2012;20(11):1209-16. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2012.07.019, Zago LR, Prado K, Benedito VL, Pereira MM. Comfrey oil shouldnt be used for cooking, like other types of cooking oil. A symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises. Comfrey's original name, knitbone, derives from the external use of poultices of its leaves and roots to heal burns, sprains, swelling, and bruises. No comments. Can a comfrey (Symphytum officianale) root extraction help ease aching joints and muscles? Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have: Comfrey is considered likely unsafe to use during pregnancy. Studies in humans are very limited. Comfrey can kill. Double boiler The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released an advisory in July 2001 recommending that comfrey products be removed from the market because of cases of hepatic veno-occlusive disease. Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. This is done by soaking the root in at least 50% alcohol for a minimum of two weeks. By Megan Nunn, PharmD Like any new treatment, discontinue use if any irritation occurs. Symphytum officinale L., dermal use (Flexagile cream)]. Its long, lance-shaped leaves can be up to 1 foot in length closer to the bottom of the stem and are shorter higher up the stem. Researchers have investigated the effects of comfrey cream on several health conditions. Wound-healing effects of a symphytum herb extract cream (. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. Apply a small amount (not to exceed a teaspoon) topically 2-3x/day for up to 2 weeks. Add comfy to Vaseline . Buy 1 get 1 Half Price | Plus an extra 20% off 30, Shop buy 1 get 1 half price on all gut health products, Looking for fitness advice & inspiration this New Year? View abstract. Retrieved from, https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=295. Amendments to the poison list. Vickers AJ, Vertosick EA, Lewith G, et al. NCCIH. View abstract. CLICK HERE TO ENTER! 2013;163(3-4):58-64. Available for Android and iOS devices. CBD oils being bought in high street stores such as Boots and Holland & Barrett are weak, low quality and don't provide the actual therapeutic advantages. Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. 2010;44(9):637-41. doi:10.1136/bjsm.2009.058677, Cameron M, Chrubasik S. Topical herbal therapies for treating osteoarthritis. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. All rights reserved. However, even if supplements are third-party tested, that doesn't mean they are necessarily safe for all or effective in general. Efficacy and safety of topically applied Symphytum herb extract cream in the treatment of ankle distortion: Results of a randomized controlled clinical double-blind study. As the consistency thickens some more, turn the mixer up a little bit more. Healthy adults: massage about 1 teaspoon of cream into a local area up to 4x/day for up to 2 weeks. It is easily absorbed to leave your skin feeling fresh, soft and radiant. Copyright Holland & Barrett Limited 2023. Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs. Researchers have found it does seem to reduce pain in some conditions, including back pain, osteoarthritis, and ankle sprains. Efficacy of a comfrey root extract ointment in comparison to a Diclo-fenac gel in the treatment of ankle distortions: Results of an observer-blind, randomized, multicenter study. Predel, H. G., Giannetti, B., Koll, R., Bulitta, M., & Staiger, C. (2005). They help us to understand how people use the website and give us the ability to provide targeted marketing to you. BMJ Case Rep. 2016. Koll, R., Buhr, M., Dieter, R., Pabst, H., Predel, H. G., Petrowicz, O., Giannetti, B., Klingenburg, S., and Staiger, C. Efficacy and tolerance of a comfrey root extract (Extr. It should never be taken by mouth. Using a combination product makes it challenging to know how much of the beneficial effect came from comfrey alone. Fortschr Med Orig 2002;120:1-9. Complementary Health Approaches for Chronic Pain: What the Science Says. It may contain small amounts of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. hollandandbarrett.com is a trading name of Holland & Barrett Retail Limited,. Avila C, Breakspear I, Hawrelak J, Salmond S, Evans S. A systematic review and quality assessment of case reports of adverse events for borage (Borago officinalis), coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) and comfrey (Symphytum officinale). comfrey cream holland and barrett. Results of an observational study of patients]. Poisons Legislation Circular 3-22-1993;60. Read our. Swiss.Med.Wkly. View abstract. Which part of the comfrey plant has the lowest level of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs)? The plant leaves have a lower concentration of PAs than the roots. Nutrition C for FS and A. View abstract. A handbook for practice on a scientific basis. Do not take comfrey without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications: This list is not complete. Efficacy and tolerance of a comfrey root extract (Extr. The ointment has a very mild herbal fragrance and is soothing on application. The herbal topical cream was prepared at two different strengths, as an additional measure of efficacy. Avoid use. Huxtable RJ, Awang DV. J Chiropr Med. What is niacinamide? This includes androstenedione, bishop's weed, borage, chaparral, comfrey, DHEA, echinacea, garlic, germander, golden ragwort, hound's tongue, kava, licorice, niacin (vitamin B3), pennyroyal oil, red yeast, St. John's wort, and others. 1.35 Fl Oz. View abstract. J Agric.Food Chem 2001;49(8):3942-3946. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use. Shop buy 1 get 1 half price on all gut health products, Buy 1 get 1 Half Price | Plus an extra 20% off 25, App Exclusive | Get an extra 22% off 25 when you spend on the H&B App, Royal Mail strikes may cause a delay to our click and collect service, Looking for fitness advice & inspiration this New Year? One group used a cream with comfrey root fluid extract on the ankle while the others received a placebo. Barna, M., Kucera, A., Hladikova, M., & Kucera, M. (2012). Comfrey is likley unsafe to take by mouth. Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020. Additionally, use on a deep cut may encourage healing of the outer skin the preparation comes in direct contact with faster than the deeper tissue, leading to abscess. Do not use extra comfrey to make up the missed dose. The leaves and stems of comfrey contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause toxic damage if ingested in excess (Ulbricht, 2010). Comfrey root: from tradition to modern clinical trials, Efficacy and safety of comfrey root extract ointment in the treatment of acute upper or lower back pain: results of a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, multicentre trial, Topical herbal therapies for treating osteoarthritis, Effect of a blend of comfrey root extract (Symphytum officinale L.) and tannic acid creams in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multiclinical trials, Treatment with 4Jointz reduces knee pain over 12 weeks of treatment in patients with clinical knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled trial. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 220 patients with knee osteoarthritis used either a commercial topical comfrey root extract or a placebo. Check regularly, but it should take about six weeks for all the leaves to break down into a thick, black liquid. Since these toxic substances can be absorbed through the skin, there's concern about the safety of comfrey cream applied topically. This is memorable if you have worked with it, and some use this quality to remember comfreys centuries-long useapplying comfrey over bones, bruises, sprains, and minor wounds with the intention to support mending! Influence of moderate physical exertion on subacute low back pain, after Symphytum officinale ointment treatment. byBhupesh Panchal, Senior Regulatory Affairs Associate, Comfrey oil is a herbal oil that moisturises skin, and thats been used as a healing herb for a long time.1, Since at least the 4th century, people have used comfrey medicinally. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Scientific studies have shown comfrey oil can help reduce the likelihood leg ulcers will become infected.7, Topical application of comfrey oil has been shown to support the lower and upper back more than methyl nicotinate, the main ingredient in many muscle creams.8. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. Kuera, M., Barna, M., Horek, O., Kovrikov, J., & Kuera, A. Drug class: Herbal products. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Metabolism, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity of comfrey. Documented adverse effects (the pyrrolizidine alkaloids, have substantial risk of causing fatal liver damage and can cause abortion). Comfrey is often sold as an herbal supplement. Beth Thomas, PharmD, is a clinical pharmacist and founder of BMT Consulting Services, LLC. 1 Since at least the 4 th century, people have used comfrey medicinally. Z Phytotherapie 2000;21:127-134. Using a supplement like comfrey may have potential side effects. Barthomeuf, C. M., Debiton, E., Barbakadze, V. V., and Kemertelidze, E. P. Evaluation of the dietetic and therapeutic potential of a high molecular weight hydroxycinnamate-derived polymer from Symphytum asperum Lepech. The Pharmaceutical Journal, PJ, December 2007. As we are constantly reviewing and developing our products to meet our consumer needs, consumers, particularly those that suffer from allergies and intolerances, should always check product labelling, warnings, and directions provided with the product that is delivered, prior to use or consumption. Comfrey flowers are bell-shaped and purple, pink, or pale yellow in color, and it has a dark taproot. Mosby Elsevier. Don't use comfrey products if you have or are at risk of having liver disease, cancer, or are taking any medication that affects the liver since it may increase the risk of liver toxicity. Be sure to use comfrey root from a reputable source that has properly identified the species. Nat Prod Res 2018;32(5):605-9. doi: 10.1080/14786419.2017.1326492. Avoid taking comfrey orally (by mouth). A systematic review and quality assessment of case reports of adverse events for borage (Borago officinalis), coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) and comfrey (Symphytum officinale). (21), 498-507. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10354-004-0114-8, Natural Medicines (2020). Additionally, because its alkaloids are absorbed through the skin, use of comfrey as a poultice should not exceed an exposure of 100 mcg/day of the alkaloids. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a plant with yellow or purple flowers found in Europe, Asia, and North America. Smith, D. B., & Jacobson, B. H. (2011). Heard about essential oils but not quite sure about what they can do for you? All rights reserved. (2004). J Chin Med.Assoc. View abstract. Mazzocchi, A. and Montanaro, F. Observational study of the use of Symphytum 5CH in the management of pain and swelling after dental implant surgery. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label. Choose organically grown comfrey when possible. Brassica Campest is Seed Oil (Rapeseed Oil), Symphytum Officinale Herb (Comfrey Herb), BHA, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil (Eucalyptus Oil). More research is needed. Make sure to always buy comfrey (Symphytum officianale) root and leaf from a trusted source. Inhibition of prostaglandin biosynthesis and PAF-induced exocytosis. Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 5 Feb 2023), Cerner Multum (updated 22 Feb 2023), ASHP (updated 12 Feb 2023) and others. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a plant with yellow or purple flowers found in Europe, Asia, and North America. Instructions. Smith DB, Jacobson BH. Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties Customer Reviews Ingredients Full ingredients Brassica Campest is Seed Oil (Rapeseed Oil), Symphytum Officinale Herb (Comfrey Herb), BHA, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil (Eucalyptus Oil). These third-party organizations test products to ensure they were manufactured safely and contain the ingredients indicated on the labeling without contaminants. Label with the ingredients and date made. 1/8 cup comfrey tincture (Symphytum officinale), store bought or via recipe, above. (2018). Comfrey is a shrub that grows in parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. After the tincture is made, then you can whip up the fabulous joint and muscle cream! This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. This soothing blend of herbal oils contains Comfrey (also known as Knitbone) and Eucalyptus Oil. Of course, more research is needed to validate efficacy and safety. Registered in England: company no. 2011;10(3):147-56. Wichtl, M. (2004). In 2001, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned oral comfrey products. Symphyti) bei Sprunggelenks-distorsionen. Remove from heat. For topical comfrey cream, look for products labeled as free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. (2001). Herbal drugs and phytopharmaceuticals. Join Rewards for Life today and we'll give you 300 points worth 3, Save 5% on your favourite products, plus get the lowest price from the last 90 days and free delivery on orders over 10. To make the cream, combine sunflower oil, safflower oil, coconut oil, and cocoa butter in a double-boiler over low heat until completely melted. In a randomized multicenter study with 164 ankle sprain patients, swelling and pain were improved more successfully using a comfrey root extract compared to a diclofenac gel (Predel et al., 2005).