Comfrey

Comfrey used by the Greeks as an herbal remedy. During medieval times, comfrey was used to mend fractured bones. Comfrey is believed to have many benefits, and can treat many ailments both internal and external. Comfrey has been used as an antibacterial and antifungal, pain reliever, to reduce inflammation,  and shrink blood vessels.

Comfrey is grown around the world, from Norway to Minnesota to Louisiana, and is also found in Asia. It thrives in soft, wet ground and is usually found in meadows or valleys. Comfrey is a big plant and can be up to five feet tall. Its leaves are dark green, long, and oval-shaped, and they grow on the upright, branch at the top of the plant. It blooms from May to September and its flowers are soft, and bell-shaped, and are either purple or yellow. The root of the plant is dark, almost black, on the outside and pale and fleshy on the inside. The root secretes a thick liquid.

Medical Indications and Benefits

Comfrey is an effective remedy for a variety of conditions. Studies have also found that comfrey is beneficial in treating ulcers and diabetes.  Comfrey helps reduce blood sugar.

Comfrey as a Food Supplement

Comfrey is an excellent tonic or dietary supplement because it contains many nutrients and beneficial chemicals, including protein, vitamins A and C. Comfrey is also one of only two plants that naturally contain vitamin B12 (alfalfa is the other one). Comfrey has many other B-complex vitamins as well. It also contains mucilaginous fiber, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, sulphur, copper, zinc, selenium, and germanium.