Regarding its antioxidant, antilipoperoxidant, antiinflammatory, and cytotoxic properties. Br.J Sports Med. The study involved 43 patients with knee osteoarthritis and a six-week treatment period. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a plant with yellow or purple flowers found in Europe, Asia, and North America. Swiss.Med.Wkly. Dietary supplements are not regulated like drugs in the United States, meaning the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve them for safety and effectiveness before products are marketed. Avoid using comfrey extracts on broken skin or open wounds. While larger and more studies are needed to fully determine safety and effectiveness, short term topical application of comfrey may give you peace of mind, relief, and support while you rest and heal, following any additional advice from your physician. Comfrey cream, an topical herbal product, is thought to reduce inflammation and pain when applied to the skin. The combination of Vitamin E, Wheat Germ oil and Rice Bran oil makes this cream perfect for your daily hydration needs. 1 Since at least the 4 th century, people have used comfrey medicinally. Finally, well warn of any side effects associated with comfrey oil. 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). Amendments to the poison list. Public Health Nutr 2000;3:501-8. Phytother.Res 2012;26(10):1441-1448. Influence of moderate physical exertion on subacute low back pain, after Symphytum officinale ointment treatment. 4-4-2009;139(13-14):210-211. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. 2007;157(21-22):569-574. Resuscitation 2008;76(3):323-324. Symphyti) bei Sprunggelenks-distorsionen. An Evidence-Based Reference. Quis autem velum iure reprehe nderit. View abstract. Symphyti) in the treatment of ankle distorsions: Results of a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Retrieved from https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=295, Predel, H. G., Giannetti, B., Koll, R., Bulitta, M., & Staiger, C. (2005). Close LOGIN FOR DONATION. While there can be a variety of causes for back pain, these small studies offer hopeful results that comfrey root may offer potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory benefits. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. of India and by a State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority constituted by Government of India on the recommendations made . Dosage: How Much Comfrey Cream Should I Use? Adv.Ther 2000;17(4):204-210. Many of those following the folk use of comfrey up to present-day think so. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. When the root is boiled in water, it forms a sticky, glue-like paste. In a randomized, controlled, double-blind study with 203 patients, applications of a 10% comfrey cream were well tolerated, reduced swelling and pain, and improved mobility (Kucera et al., 2004). An ankle sprain can come out of nowhere and cause a lot of pain, limitations, and regret until it is healed. Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 5 Feb 2023), Cerner Multum (updated 22 Feb 2023), ASHP (updated 12 Feb 2023) and others. randomized double-blind study of 278 patients with fresh abrasions, a. topical preparation containing a 10% comfrey leaf extraction applied for 2-3 days reduced wound healing time of adults and children without side effects (Barna et al., 2012). Browse our Sports Hub, Get 20% student discount with Student Beans, Discover the latest natural beauty products. Kucera, A., Barna, M., Holcova, S., Horacek, O., Hladikov, M., & Ottillinger, B. Maryland Heights, MO. Vithayathil MK, Edwards M. Comfrey herbal remedy causing second-degree heart block: do not be outfoxed by digitalis. This site uses cookies to improve your experience. Comfrey is likley unsafe to take by mouth. The FDA has recommended that all comfrey products that are taken by mouth be removed from the market. Some recent human studies have demonstrated that extracts may help with ankle sprains, knee pain and stiffness, backaches, and mild skin abrasions. The participants were assigned three weeks of treatment with two grams of either comfrey ointment or a placebo three times a day. 98% Naturally derived. After 7 years in this role and a further year working as a drug safety officer in the pharmaceutical industry, Bhupesh joined Holland &Barrett as a Senior Regulatory Affairs Associate in 2019. Comfrey cream contains several active components (substances). Toe was infected and painful. Researchers have found it does seem to reduce pain in some conditions, including back pain, osteoarthritis, and ankle sprains. Modern science suggests that the ancients were correct in believing comfrey helps to heal woundsand relieve pain.3,4 In this article, well explain where comfrey comes from, comfrey oils remarkable health benefits and how to use it at home. Kucera, M., Kalal, J., and Polesna, Z. Thus, it is not advised to ingest herbal preparations of comfrey unless guided by an expert pharmacologist and physician. View abstract. Drug class: Herbal products. 2017;83:1-4. And topical capsaicin cream may help to relieve pain temporarily. Healthy adults: massage about 1 teaspoon of cream into a local area up to 4x/day for up to 2 weeks. These side effects may be common or severe. View abstract. Anotherstudy found that comfrey ointment was superior to placebo in relieving pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis. ). Comfrey has been cultivated as a green vegetable and has been used as an herbal medicine for more than 2,000 years. Wichtl, M. (2004). 1/8 cup comfrey tincture (Symphytum officinale), store bought or via recipe, above. Comfrey is a fast-growing plant whose leaves and roots have been used historically for wound healing and other conditions. Some medications can also harm the liver. All rights reserved. Consult your healthcare provider before using. What are the benefits of using it? How do you use it and are there any side effects? Comfrey may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide. Which part of the comfrey plant has the lowest level of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs)? Comfrey is not recommended for internal use because of the liver damage caused by its pyrrolizidine alkaloids. View abstract. New South Wales Health, Australia. One study followed 142 patients with ankle sprains. Metabolism, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity of comfrey. A member of the borage family, comfrey root, leaves, and stems have an obvious coat of bristly hair. Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Electric bowl mixer (like a KitchenAid) or a blender 2013;5(5):CD010538. The ointment has a very mild herbal fragrance and is soothing on application. In 2001, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned oral comfrey products. Comfrey might harm the liver. Pyrrolizidine poisoning. Tolerability and effectiveness of an antitrauma cream with comfrey herb extract in pediatric use with application on intact and on broken skin. All Technology Jobs. Kuera, M., Barna, M., Horek, O., Kovrikov, J., & Kuera, A. D'Anchise, R., Bulitta, M., and Giannetti, B. Comfrey extract ointment in comparison to diclofenac gel in the treatment of acute unilateral ankle sprains (distortions). What is niacinamide? When buying commercial brands, seek those that have had the pyrrolizidine alkaloids removed, if possible. Consult your healthcare provider before using comfrey cream. 2004;154(21-22):498-507. However, people with knee pain may be glad to try a topical preparation that could help in addition to any other recommendations made by their physician. It also covers side effects, interactions, and what to look for. Frost R, O'meara S, Macpherson H. The external use of comfrey: a practitioner survey. Would you like to win our brilliant Botanical Business Package with nearly $1,000 in prizes? The herbal topical cream was prepared at two different strengths, as an additional measure of efficacy. Fortschr Med Orig 2002;120:1-9. Aust.J Physiother. Hybrids and other species may have a similar appearance but could have significantly different amounts of the toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (Kucera et al., 2018). 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. Like any new treatment, discontinue use if any irritation occurs. Phytomedicine, 11(6), 470-477. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2004.02.001, Kucera, A., Barna, M., Holcova, S., Horacek, O., Hladikov, M., & Ottillinger, B. Comfrey is an herb in the Boraginaceae family and has small purple flowers. 2020;142:104519. 2018;19(5):455-474. doi:10.1016/j.jpain.2017.11.005, Gagnier JJ, Oltean H, van Tulder MW, Berman BM, Bombardier C, Robbins CB. Also, avoid use for more than two weeks or excessive concentrations containing more than 100 mcg of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (Wichtl, 2004 & Ulbricht, 2010). When buying commercial brands, seek those that have had the pyrrolizidine alkaloids removed, if possible. As a Licensed Massage Therapist, I have personally made this comfrey cream recipe multiple times and given jars to my clients. Symphytum officinale L, S. asperum Lepechin, S. tuberosum L, Symphytum x uplandicum Nyman. Call your doctor for medical advice about . Journal of chiropractic medicine, 10(3), 147-156. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2011.01.003, Stam, C., Bonnet, M. S., & van Haselen, R. A. The most common over-the-counter medication that can be toxic to the liver is acetaminophen (Tylenol). Comfrey may have been applied to the skin in a specific preparation to treat some of these conditions. View abstract. Discontinue use if a rash appears. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-007-0474-y. Knee pain and stiffness can be a stubborn concern that keeps many from doing activities they enjoy. Jedlinszki, N., Balzs, B., Csnyi, E., & Csupor, D. (2017). Do not use different forms (tablets, liquid, tincture, teas, etc) of comfrey at the same time without medical advice. 2013;163(3-4):58-64. Comfrey cream combines ingredients like oils or water and glyceryl stearate with Symphytum officinale (comfrey) extracts. 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. Whenselecting a brand of supplements, look for products certified by Consumer Labs, the U.S.Pharmacopeia, or NSF. 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. Topically, comfrey root and leaf extracts have been traditionally used for bruises, sore muscles and joints, sprains, mild wounds, and gout (Natural Medicines, 2020). Ask your doctor if you have any questions. Laslett, L. L., Quinn, S. J., Darian-Smith, E., Kwok, M., Fedorova, T., Korner, H., Steels, E., March, L., and Jones, G. Treatment with 4Jointz reduces knee pain over 12 weeks of treatment in patients with clinical knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled trial. To make this recipe, first, you must prepare the comfrey root tincture. Comfrey cream may help treat knee osteoarthritis, according to a Cochrane review of topical herbal therapies. Vickers AJ, Vertosick EA, Lewith G, et al. However, not a rate considered harmful for those with healthy livers.10,11, Masters Degree in Toxicology and BSc Hons in Medical Biochemistry. The following applications have been used in research: Using large amounts of comfrey cream or using it for extended periods of time increases the risk of side effects like liver toxicity. Safety Alerts & Advisories: FDA Advises Dietary Supplement Manufacturers to Remove Comfrey Products From the Market. These have a lower risk of serious side effects like liver damage. A member of the borage family, comfrey root, leaves, and stems have an obvious coat of bristly hair. This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. 2004;11(6):470-477. Newer Post Older . It is not certain whether comfrey is effective in treating any medical condition. Comfrey is generally considered unsafe, with numerous toxicological effects in animals and humans. HTB; 2021 2; Youtube; Twitter; Facebook; ; This is done by soaking the root in at least 50% alcohol for a minimum of two weeks. As a Licensed Massage Therapist for fifteen years, I have noticed that back pain can be caused by a variety of reasons and can be very debilitating. Comfrey root extracts have been used by herbalists and in folk traditions for centuries to soothe aches and pains. Other uses not proven with research have included skin wounds, skin ulcers, cough, sore throat, gum disease, joint pain, diarrhea, and other conditions. Phytomedicine, 14(1), 2-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2006.11.006, Jedlinszki, N., Balzs, B., Csnyi, E., & Csupor, D. (2017). Human liver microsomal reduction of pyrrolizidine alkaloid N-oxides to form the corresponding carcinogenic parent alkaloid. Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Bird Flu Deaths Prompt U.S. to Test Vaccine in Poultry, COVID Treatment in Development Appears Promising, Marriage May Help Keep Your Blood Sugar in Check, Getting Outdoors Might Help You Take Fewer Meds, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, Getting Help for a Loved One With Psychosis: It's Complicated, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Vitamins and Supplements to Avoid with Hepatitis C. Written by Cerner Multum. Add comfy to Vaseline . Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice. What alternatives to comfrey cream are there for back pain? Avoid use. 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. Essential oils are a whole new world in themselves & the benefits of using them are widespread. By Megan Nunn, PharmD Ther Drug Monit 2001;23:698-708. Wang YP, Yan J, Fu PP, Chou MW. Arzneimittelforschung. Yield: Approximately 5 cups of whipped lotion. 2012;(1):41-42. If your healthcare provider recommends it, make sure to use it on intact skin for a small amount of time, and be careful that infants do not ingest it. If you choose to use comfrey, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Therefore, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any supplements you plan to take and to check in about any potential interactions with other supplements or medications. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. View abstract. 95 ($14.78/Fl Oz) FREE delivery Wed, Mar 8 on $25 of items shipped by Amazon. 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. Complementary Health Approaches for Chronic Pain: What the Science Says. Small glass jars with lids for sharing (optional). View abstract. A handbook for practice on a scientific basis. In a study of 712 children with superficial wounds, applying a 25% comfrey cream for one week or up to two weeks (2-4x day) offered a strong benefit to risk ratio (Kucera et al., 2018). 2013;21(6):724-45. 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. It contains chemicals that are poisonous. Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties. View abstract. Symphytum species: A comprehensive review on chemical composition, food applications and phytopharmacology. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 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! 2010;73(2):97-100. Am J Med 1990;89:547-8. 2012;26(10):14411448. It is easily absorbed to leave your skin feeling fresh, soft and radiant. Learn more in The Comfrey Controversy: Can and Should One Use Comfrey Internally? First, make the comfrey root tincture by combining the dried comfrey root and alcohol in a sterilized, dry, glass pint jar. Save the remaining liquid alcohol portion. Check regularly, but it should take about six weeks for all the leaves to break down into a thick, black liquid. Rad. This is the tincture. Chojkier M. Hepatic sinusoidal-obstruction syndrome: toxicity of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions before use. Comfrey is changed and broken down by the liver. This soothing blend of herbal oils contains Comfrey (also known as Knitbone) and Eucalyptus Oil. Avoid comfrey with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease. Results of an observational study of patients]. Poisons Legislation Circular 3-22-1993;60. Do not use extra comfrey to make up the missed dose. The Pharmaceutical Journal, PJ, December 2007. Complement Ther Med. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products.
