Comfrey

Symphytum officinale

Family: Boraginaceae Evidence: C salvepoultice

TOPICAL USE ONLY. Traditionally used as a poultice for muscle and joint comfort. Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids — internal use is dangerous.

Safety Profile

PregnancyUnsafe
BreastfeedingUnsafe
PediatricNot Recommended

Contraindications

NEVER take internally. Do not apply to broken skin. Liver disease. Limit topical use to 4-6 weeks per year.

Interactions

Avoid with hepatotoxic drugs. Topical use has minimal systemic absorption.

Side Effects

Topical: generally safe for intact skin. Internal: SEVERE liver damage (veno-occlusive disease), carcinogenic.

Liver: CRITICAL: Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids. NEVER ingest. Causes hepatic veno-occlusive disease.
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal product.