Comfrey plant. Comfrey plant: useful properties and contraindications for use

Mother Nature is an invaluable source of the most useful plants with unique properties and benefits. One of them is the herb comfrey, which is familiar to people under the name larkspur. People were able to appreciate all the advantages of the plant only during the war and the global epidemic, when highly effective remedies were made on the basis of the leaves for the treatment of severe fractures and wounds. On this basis, each field doctor had a comfrey with him.

Zhivokost has a positive effect on bones and joints, so if you apply it to a patient in time, most likely, the tissues will begin to regenerate. The plant is still highly regarded by adherents. traditional medicine, who apply it to patients with fractures, dislocations of joints and bruises. In general, comfrey is really indispensable in cases where you need to disinfect a wound and speed up the regeneration process.

Description and characteristics

Comfrey is one of the most famous representatives of herbaceous plants that grow en masse in European countries and Western Asia. On our territory, it can be found everywhere, right up to the southern regions of Siberia, in the Crimea and in the Caucasus mountains. Most often, such a unique creature grows in vast meadows, wet meadows, the shores of reservoirs, as well as near ravines and the outskirts of swamps. The spread is also noticed near houses, in gardens and vegetable gardens, as well as in places where garbage is stored with high humidity.

The plant belongs to the group of medicinal perennials from the borage family. As it grows, a branched stem is formed, growing up to 1 meter in height. In the lower part, the culture has a tetrahedral shape, decorated with large leaves oblong structure... Their length reaches 10-15 centimeters, and their width is 5 centimeters. The foliage is located in the lower part, has long winged petioles and sessile leaves in the upper part. From characteristic features - the presence of coarse hairs.

The adult larkspur has a small root with a black color and thickening. In the place where the rhizome is cut, there is White color, and the pulp is characterized by a sweetish taste. During the growing season, the formation of small tubular-bell-shaped inflorescences begins. As they grow, they create tiny panicles at the ends of the stem and branches that resemble a one-sided curl. When flowering season arrives, closed panicles open up to take on the most amazing tones, including:

• purple;
• purple;
• Violet;
• other.

In most cases, this occurs in early May to mid June.

During the ripening period of the planting material, which begins in the second half of summer, four smooth nuts with a black color are formed. Their length is 4-5 millimeters. One adult plant contains about 800-1000 seeds... When propagating, use the seed method, or dividing the bush.

Origin story

As an ornamental plant, larkspur began to be grown in the 18th century. Then it was massively planted in the St. Petersburg Botanical Garden. The court gardener D. Bush sent a parcel with planting material to England, indicating that these are seeds of an ornamental culture. Local botanists immediately appreciated the excellent feeding properties of comfrey, and began to grow it to feed livestock.

In addition, the British managed to breed another species - comfrey foreign... It strongly resembled the variety of rigid comfrey growing in the Caucasus, but had less rigid pubescence. Until now, some gardeners do not attribute it to a separate kind, while another group of people believe that it is a hybrid between a medicinal and a tough variety.

In England, the species began to be called the Russian comfrey and was used as food for poultry and pigs. In addition, high-quality compost was created on its basis, as well as liquid fertilizers from greens, which began to be used on small farms, areas along fences, buildings and wastelands.

Interest in the larkspur increased with the outbreak of World War II. In addition, in 1953, the famous writer D. Hills published a book in honor of the Russian comfrey.

According to some facts, at the beginning of the 17th century, when the Apothecary Decree was issued in Moscow and the first “apothecary gardens” began to appear, gardeners brought about 20 poods of roots from Polotsk and Smolensk. ... Within a few decades, the plant found a response in the hearts of many owners of household plots, especially those that were made according to the English model. A lot has been written about the plant in local magazines.

By the way, in the old estates to this day, whole plantations of plants with blue flowers grow.

Application

For medicinal purposes, it is customary to use comfrey leaves and roots. The collection of roots begins in early spring, until the leaves begin to bloom. The collected product is thoroughly washed, crushed, and then placed in special conditions for drying. The latter process can take a very long time, since adult plants accumulate a lot of moisture, so drying takes a long time. Leaves are harvested during flowering.

Larkspur roots are of great value due to their rich composition and properties. For understanding, such a part of the plant contains many such biological substances:

• allantoin;
• alkaloid;
• cinoglossin;
• saponins;
• tannins.

On the official language the family of comfrey is called Symphytum, which translates from Greek as "grow together." And this name has a logical explanation, since the plant contributes to fast healing tissues and the restoration of bones in fractures and bruises. The variety itself received the name "officinale", which means "medicinal".

As for the name "comfrey", it appeared in our countries and is associated with the places of growth. In most cases, a representative of medicinal perennials grows in humid low-lying areas. It is also called borage, pharmaceutical omentum, pravokost.

Medicinal properties

Adherents of traditional medicine highlight many of the unique medicinal properties of the plant. Preparations based on it are highly effective for the following problems:

In addition, they restore normal metabolism and fight many external ailments, including:

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

Internal use of the product is necessary, if desired, to achieve the fastest possible bone healing and tissue healing. Unique properties typical for decoctions and infusions that can prevent bleeding. In addition, it is excellent at combating hemoptysis and chronic inflammation of the respiratory tract. When applied externally, the live bone fights:

1. dislocations;
2. fractures;
3. bruises;
4. inflammation of the veins;
5. skin diseases;
6. ulcers;
7. wounds;
8. rheumatic pains.

In folk medicine, the comfrey plant is considered the greatest treasure, which has practically no analogues in terms of the quality of healing, anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic actions.

Such a wide range of applications is explained by the composition rich in allantoin. Zhivokost represents multifunctional natural antibiotic with powerful bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effects. It effectively cleans the lesion and promotes the active formation of new healthy cells.

Root infusion

To prepare such a remedy, you need to take one tablespoon of crushed roots and pour a glass of boiling water over them. Then, the mixture is moved to a cool place so that it is infused for about 6-8 hours, and filtered. When the size of the roots increases, they need to be poured with a glass of boiling water, reducing the infusion time to 30 minutes. Then, the tincture is filtered again.

The solution perfectly fights against chronic bronchitis and catarrh of the respiratory tract, effectively eliminates inflammation and facilitates the excretion of phlegm.

Also, many people know how to create high quality tinctures for washes, baths and compresses that are combined with ingestion.

To prepare the product, you should take half a glass of fresh crushed roots and pour them with 40-degree vodka in a volume of 0.5 liters. Subsequently, the mixture is moved into a dark space, and after 10 days it is filtered. The substance is taken in 20-30 drops, guided by the scheme 3-5 times a day before meals.

Using a highly effective infusion and tincture, you can significantly speed up the healing process with fractures, dislocations, bruises and osteomyelitis. He also fights purulent periodontal disease, chronic inflammation of the duodenum, diarrhea and dysentery.

The beneficial properties are manifested in the improvement of metabolism, digestion and appetite.

Root-based decoctions

To make a decoction, you need to take a tablespoon of the roots, pour a glass of boiling water over them and put them on the stove for a 10-minute boil. The finished mixture is filtered and used for external and internal use, fighting:

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

In addition, the decoction of the root fights uterine, hemorrhoidal and other bleeding, even nasal bleeding. It is enough to prepare the tampons and soak them thoroughly in the prepared broth, and then insert them into the nostrils. The remedy fights skin wounds, abrasions and bruises.

As for cosmetic purposes, comfrey is used here in the form of lotions, which perfectly solve the problem of dry skin. Decoction poultices are indispensable for irritation, redness and flaking skin... Regular use improves hair condition and prevents hair loss.

In addition to many useful properties, comfrey also has significant contraindications. The larkspur contains a number of toxic compounds including cinoglossin and consolidin. The plant was studied by physicians, who concluded that mutagenic and carcinogenic effects are observed with prolonged or improper use.

Herbal decoctions are contraindicated for people with low blood pressure, pregnant women and nursing mothers. It is necessary to take into account such features and avoid use, otherwise there may be a risk of complications and dangerous side effects.

conclusions

Comfrey is one of the most common plants in our country. It is very effective remedy for a wide variety of purposes and directions, including the treatment of fractures. The roots, on the basis of which the drugs are made, are considered the greatest value for adherents of traditional medicine. Therapeutic action determined by the effect on damaged tissue, as a result of which the mechanism of their regeneration is started. In addition, the remedy is effective not only for minor injuries, wounds and abrasions, but also for more dangerous problems, including fractures.

Today, tinctures and decoctions are made from roots and leaves that can improve the patient's condition in the most common painful conditions. For this reason, even doctors from medical clinics recommend to use folk remedies based different parts plants guided detailed instructions for their preparation. You should understand that the success of the created tool is determined by many factors, including correct dosage and a recipe.

If you do not follow the key recommendations, it is likely that good result you won't have to wait. In addition, misuse can lead to the development of all sorts of side effects and complications, which will need to be dealt with more radical methods.

Instructions for use:

Comfrey officinalis (larkspur) is a herb belonging to the Borage family.

Description

The plant has an erect, branched stem, reaching a height of 1-1.2 meters, covered with hard hairs. The leaves of the larkspur are large, alternate, with a rough surface, the shape is oblong-lanceolate. If you knead a larkspur leaf in your hands, then a cucumber smell will appear.

The plant blooms with small purple or purple flowers. The flowering period is from early May to July.

Larkspur is found in the European part of Russia (except for the Far North), in the Caucasus, Central Asia, in the Carpathians and Western Siberia... The plant prefers moist peat soil, forest edges and flooded meadows, the banks of water bodies.

Fields of application of comfrey officinalis

Found application of comfrey medicinal in medicine. Even ancient healers - Paracelsus and Avicenna successfully treated more than 100 diseases with this plant.

Also, larkspur is used for cosmetic purposes. It is able to repair the epithelium and improve skin color. For tonic baths, aromatic oils with larkspur extract are used.

Comfrey medicinal - rubber plant. Such a fact is known - during the great patriotic war the Germans tried to grow it in the occupied territory of Ukraine. So they hoped to solve the problem with the shortage of rubber.

Chemical composition

The underground part of medicinal comfrey contains alkaloids: lisiocarpine and cinoglossin. In addition, the roots contain tannins, essential oils, glycosides, resins, mucus, starch, gums and other organic substances.

Medicinal properties of medicinal comfrey

For medicinal purposes, the roots of the plant are used. They are harvested in late autumn. Infusions and decoctions based on larkspur roots have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, astringent, regenerating, enveloping and hemostatic effects.

A decoction of comfrey roots is used to increase appetite and tone. Plant-based preparations are used for digestive disorders, diseases gastrointestinal tract and ulcers.

Application in traditional medicine

In folk medicine, the use of comfrey is very common. Alcohol tinctures, powders, ointments, infusions and decoctions are made on the basis of the roots of the larkspur.

Inside it is taken for duodenal and stomach ulcers. For tuberculosis, dysentery, bronchitis with difficult sputum, the plant is also considered effective.

In the form of compresses, gruel from freshly prepared comfrey roots is used for thrombophlebitis, for bruises and bone fractures.

Outwardly, plant-based preparations are used to treat arthritis and radiculitis, inflammatory diseases oral cavity, at purulent wounds and trophic ulcers... Use the larkspur in treatment oncological diseases lungs, prostate and breast. The use of the plant inhibits the appearance of bone metastases.

Contraindications to the use of comfrey medicinal

Despite the fact that medicinal comfrey is an excellent healer, successfully used in the treatment of many diseases, do not forget that the plant is poisonous. It is for this reason that in a number of Western countries the plant is prohibited from using in official medicine... Medical scientists in the study of the plant came to the conclusion that long-term administration of drugs from the larkspur has a mutagenic and carcinogenic effect.

Therefore, the intake of the plant should be carried out under the strict supervision of doctors.

A contraindication to the reception of a larkspur is a reduced arterial pressure, pregnancy period and individual intolerance.

In the article we talk about medicinal comfrey. You will learn the chemical composition and medicinal properties of the plant. You can use the recipes for the preparation of ointments, tinctures and infusions from comfrey for the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system. We will tell you who should not use comfrey preparations, and why.

Comfrey is a perennial herb (Latin Symphytum) of the Borage family. Other names for comfrey: bone breaker, sebaceous root, larkspur.

The plant got its name comfrey because it grows in hollows and ditches. The Latin name in translation means "to bind", "to connect", it is explained by the ability of comfrey to restore damaged bones.

Sometimes comfrey is confused with another plant of the Buttercup family - larkspur (Delphinium). These plants have nothing in common.

What does comfrey look like

Appearance (photo) of comfrey This is a tall, up to 1 meter, herbaceous plant with a straight, powerful stem, covered with stiff hairs. The root is large, black in color with snow-white pulp; when broken, it secretes mucus. The leaves are large, rough, oval in shape.

The flowers are small, bell-shaped, red, white, purple or lilac, collected in a brush. The fruits are smooth, shiny nuts. Each flower yields 4 seeds when ripe.

Where grows

Comfrey grows in Europe, Asia, Africa, Japan, New Zealand and North America.

Prefers fertile, humid places: the banks of reservoirs, lowlands and wetlands. Often found in orchards and vegetable gardens near compost heaps where the soil is sufficiently moist.

You learned what comfrey grass looks like and where it grows, now let's talk about the chemical composition of this plant and its beneficial properties.

Comfrey root

Comfrey roots are used for medicinal purposes Find medicines comfrey use in traditional medicine... The leaves and roots of the plant are used. Comfrey preparations have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and hemostatic effects.

The most valuable part of comfrey is the root, which contains active substances.

Chemical composition

Comfrey root contains:

• allantoin;
• alkaloids;
• flavonoids;
• tannins;
• mucus;
• tannins;
• inulin;
• essential oils;
• resin;
• Sahara.

Medicinal properties

The medicinal properties inherent in comfrey root are actively used in homeopathy, folk medicine and the pharmaceutical industry.

Comfrey includes a large number of allantoin. This substance is necessary for fractures and diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

The plant has strong hemostatic properties, helps with both internal and external bleeding.

Comfrey preparations have an expectorant and anti-inflammatory effect. They help to cope with bronchitis and colds.

The astringent and enveloping properties of comfrey are used in the treatment of diseases of the digestive tract.

How to collect

What does comfrey root look like? Large, knobby, black with a brown tinge.

How to prepare comfrey root? The roots are dug up in early spring before the flowering of the plant or in late autumn. Small shoots are cut off, and the main rhizome is cleaned from the ground with a brush and cut into small pieces. It is not recommended to wash raw materials with water.

How to dry comfrey roots? Pieces of root are strung on a string and hung in a cool, well-ventilated area until completely dry. A dry crackle when breaking open indicates that the roots are ready for further storage in a linen bag or a sealed glass jar.

How to apply

The use of comfrey preparations should be treated with caution, especially when self-made. This plant is poisonous, so strictly follow the dosage of the components and recommendations for use.

Comfrey compresses for joints

Comfrey is used for joints in complex therapy.

Ingredients:

1. Chopped comfrey roots - 0.5 cups.
2. Honey - 1-2 tbsp. spoons.
3. Vegetable oil - 1 tbsp. a spoon.

How to cook: Mix the finely chopped roots with honey and vegetable oil, heat over low heat, leave for a couple of days.

How to use: Apply the resulting gruel to the painful joint, cover with a natural cloth, put a film on top and insulate. Leave overnight for best result... Repeat every two days.

Result: Compress relieves pain and swelling, improves joint mobility.

Tincture for fracture

Comfrey is used for fractures.

Ingredients:

1. Comfrey roots - 100 grams.
2. Vodka - 500 ml.

How to cook: Pour the crushed roots with vodka, leave for two weeks in a dark place, shaking occasionally.

How to use: Drink 30-40 drops with water 3 times daily before meals. After removing the plaster, apply a cloth soaked in tincture diluted in half with water to the fracture site.

Result: The product accelerates bone fusion.

Comfrey oil for herniated discs

Substances in the larkspur root accelerate the restoration of bone tissue.

Ingredients:

1. Dried comfrey root - 50 gr.
2. Vegetable oil - ½ liter.

How to cook: Cover the root with oil, leave in a dark place for 10 days.

How to use: Gently massage back with oil.

Result: Oil relieves inflammation and pain relief.

Comfrey in oncology

Allantoin, which this plant contains in abundance, has anticancer effects. In folk medicine, this property is used to treat sarcoma and cancer of different localization. Apply the infusion inside and in the form of applications from the crushed root, applying it to the tumor or the affected bone.

Other uses of comfrey

A decoction of comfrey root is used for lotions for arthritis and arthrosis. Fresh root ointment helps with bruises and ligament ruptures. Osteochondrosis is fought with the help of ointments, tinctures and compresses from the root of the larkspur.

For hemorrhoids, microclysters are made from a decoction of comfrey.

Comfrey ointment helps with any form of mastopathy.

Comfrey Ointment - Joint Application

The effectiveness of using comfrey ointment for joints is explained by the plant's ability to restore and strengthen bone tissue.

How to make comfrey joint ointment at home?

Ingredients:

1. Shredded roots of the larkspur - 1 part.
2. Pork lard - 4 parts.

How to cook: Mix ingredients and place in steam bath for 30 minutes. Filter in liquid form until solidified. Store in the refrigerator.

How to use: Rub into joints or apply thick under bandage.

Result: Reduces joint pain, increases mobility.

The joints of the hands are often affected by osteochondrosis and suffer from salt deposits.

How to make comfrey ointment at home for hand joints?

Ingredients:

1. Comfrey roots - 50 gr.
2. Pork lard - 50 gr.
3. Honey - 3 tbsp. spoons.

How to cook: Mix all ingredients and simmer in a water bath until smooth.

How to use: Rub comfrey ointment into joints twice a day.

Result: Regular use of the ointment improves the mobility of the joints of the hands and reduces pain in the area of ​​salt deposition.

Below is a comfrey ointment - a recipe for a vertebral hernia.

Ingredients:

1. Comfrey root powder - 1 part.
2. Ghee lard - 4 parts.

How to cook: Mix ingredients thoroughly and refrigerate.

How to use: Before going to bed, rub the ointment into your back, avoiding the hernia area, wrap your back with a warm cloth.

Result: Comfrey ointment for intervertebral hernia improves the condition of cartilage tissue and relieves pain.

The combination of comfrey with other medicinal plants in the composition of the ointment enhances the therapeutic effect on the joints. How to prepare comfrey and saber ointment?

Ingredients:

1. Ground comfrey roots - 2 parts.
2. Ground cinquefoil roots - 1 part.
3. Any rendered internal fat (preferably badger) - 100 ml.

How to cook: Mix 2-3 tablespoons of roots with fat and put in a water bath for 2-3 hours. Strain and squeeze.

How to use: Apply warm to joints, cover with foil, warm.

Result: Comfrey and saber ointment improves joint health.

You have learned how to make your own comfrey root ointment.

Comfrey tincture - recipe for joints

Comfrey tincture for joints is no less effective for treatment than ointment. It is used for rubbing with gout, osteochondrosis and salt deposition. How to make comfrey tincture for joints?

Try making comfrey tincture with vodka

Ingredients:

1. Comfrey root crushed into shavings - 1 part.
2. Vodka - 3 parts.

How to cook: Pour vodka over vegetable raw materials. Leave in the dark for 21 days, shaking occasionally.

How to use: Apply tincture to affected joints and massage.

Result: Reduces inflammation, relieves pain.

Ingredients:

1. Comfrey root -100 gr.
2. Alcohol - 500 ml.

How to cook: Fill the plant material with alcohol. Leave in a dark place for 1 week, shaking occasionally.

How to use: Rub into painful joints, use as a compress if there is no inflammation.

Result: Restoration of joints and cartilage tissue.

Intervertebral hernia is a fairly common disease that affects early stage causes painful sensations in the back and neck similar to osteochondrosis and radiculitis. Before starting treatment of a hernia, it is necessary to diagnose it in medical institution... At home, you can prepare comfrey tincture for a hernia of the spine.

Ingredients:

1. Dry comfrey root - 50 gr.
2. Vodka - 0.7 liters.

How to cook: Pour raw vodka. Allow time for the mixture to infuse for 14 days, strain.

How to use: Rub the tincture on your back and apply compresses.

Result: Stimulates the restoration of the cartilaginous tissue of the intervertebral discs.

If, having learned how to prepare comfrey tincture at home, you cannot do this, use a pharmacy analogue.

Comfrey medications

You can buy comfrey medications at the pharmacy Pharmaceuticals with comfrey is successfully used in the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, bruises, fractures and injuries.

Name	Compound	Application
Comfrey 911	comfrey extractor; chondroitin; badyaga extract; essential oils of eucalyptus, rosemary, cloves, juniper.	Heals wounds and burns, relieves inflammation, removes puffiness and swelling, relieves pain. Used in the treatment of joint diseases.
The Zhivokost of Doctor Theiss	comfrey extractor; chlorophyll; pine oil; corn oil.	Improves blood circulation, warms, relieves pain, relieves inflammation. Used for bone fractures, ligament rupture, bruises, radiculitis, osteochondrosis, arthritis.
Zhivokost with bee venom	comfrey extract; bee venom; tea tree oil; burdock extract; rosehip extract; extract of golden mustache.	Relieves pain and inflammation, improves blood supply and nutrition to joints, and stops salt deposition. Used for sciatica, neuralgia, gout, age-related changes musculoskeletal system.
Zhivokost body balm comfrey	comfrey root extract; aloe extract; tea tree oil; sea ​​buckthorn oil; propolis; extracts of plantain, golden mustache, celandine, chamomile, arnica.	Restores metabolic processes in the joints. Used for edema, muscle spasms, damage to cartilage and joints, bone fractures.

Can comfrey be used during pregnancy?

Comfrey enhances muscle tone uterus and contains toxic substances in moderate amounts, therefore, comfrey preparations cannot be used during pregnancy either internally or externally.

Contraindications

You can not use comfrey and preparations from it:

• children;
• pregnant women;
• breastfeeding;
• allergy sufferers.

Classification

Taxonomic position:

• Domain: Eukaryotes.
• Kingdom: Plants.
• Department: Flowering.
• Class: Dicotyledons.
• Family: Borage.
• Subfamily: Borage.
• Genus: Comfrey.

Varieties

There are about 20 types of comfrey.

The most common are:

• comfrey (Symphytum officinale);
• Crimean comfrey (Symphytum tauricum);
• comfrey heart-shaped (Symphytum cordatum);
• large-flowered comfrey (Symphytum grandiflorum);
• wandering comfrey (Symphytum peregrinum);
• Caucasian comfrey (Symphytum caucasicum);
• oriental comfrey (Symphytum orientale).

For more information on planting comfrey, see the video:

Comfrey officinalis infographics

Photo of medicinal comfrey, its beneficial features and application:
Comfrey officinalis infographics

What to remember

1. Comfrey possesses medicinal properties which are used to treat bronchitis, bleeding, gastrointestinal diseases and oncology
2. This plant is most in demand for fractures, ligament ruptures and diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
3. The plant is poisonous and requires caution in use.
4. It is categorically impossible to use larkspur preparations during pregnancy.
5. You have learned everything about comfrey, useful properties and contraindications to the use of this plant.

Comfrey was popularly called "larkspur", it has long been used during wars and epidemics, with severe fractures and wounds, it was the first means of helping the wounded in the field. Comfrey useful properties and contraindications, the action of comfrey is due to the high content of allantoin, which is natural antibiotic and is characterized by a powerful bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect.

Comfrey is unique in therapeutic effect on bones and joints, it is able to accelerate the healing and restoration of damaged tissues, especially bone, which is widely used for fractures, dislocations of joints and bruises, wherever it is necessary to clean the wound and stimulate healing.

Description and photo of medicinal comfrey

(Symphytum officinale L.)

Comfrey is a large herb common in Europe and Western Asia. In Russia, it grows throughout the European part of the country, in the south of Western Siberia, in the Crimea, in the Caucasus in deciduous forests, in clearings, wet meadows, along the banks of rivers and reservoirs, in forest ravines, on the outskirts of swamps. It is found in dwellings, in gardens and vegetable gardens, in damp weedy places, the most common comfrey is medicinal.

Comfrey officinalis is a perennial herb of the Borage family, with a branched stem up to 1 meter high, tetrahedral in the lower part, with oblong large leaves 10-15 cm long, about 5 cm wide. The lower leaves are with long winged petioles, the upper ones are sessile; dense, rough leaves and stems are covered with coarse hairs.

The rhizome is short, almost black with long thick roots; at the break, the roots are white, juicy, with a sweet astringent taste.

The flowers are small, tubular-bell-shaped, collected in paniculate inflorescences at the ends of the stem and branches - a one-sided curl, folded before flowering. Flowers during flowering change color from purple, lilac or violet to blue, blue. Blooms in May - June.

The fruits break into four black, smooth shiny nuts 4 - 5 mm long, ripen in July - September. One plant produces 800 - 1000 seeds per year. Propagated by seeds and rhizome division.

V medicinal purposes use mainly comfrey roots, less often leaves. The roots are harvested in early spring before the leaves bloom, and in the fall, after flowering. They are well washed, cut, wilted and dried, it takes a long time to dry, since the plant accumulates a lot of moisture in the roots. The leaves are harvested during the flowering of the plant.

Comfrey roots are biologically rich active substances, they contain allantoin, the alkaloid cinoglossin and the glucoalkaloid consolididin, saponins, tannins, mucus, resins, gum, inulin, essential oil.

The scientific name of the genus Symphytum - from the Greek word symphyton- "grow together", is due to the use of the plant for the treatment of various bone fractures. The name of the species officinale is translated “medicinal”.

The Russian generic name is associated with the places of growth - in humid low-lying places. Other popular names comfrey medicinal - borage, apothecary omentum, pravokost.

Comfrey medicinal use

In folk medicine, preparations from comfrey root are used for bone fractures, wounds, kidney diseases, coughs, bronchitis, pulmonary tuberculosis, inflammatory processes stomach and intestines, diarrhea, to improve metabolism, with abscesses. It is also used externally for stomatitis, purulent rashes, skin cracks, trophic ulcers.

Inside, comfrey preparations are used to accelerate bone healing, tissue regeneration. Mucous broths and comfrey infusions stop bleeding, are used for hemoptysis, chronic inflammatory processes in respiratory organs, with gastrointestinal diseases.

Comfrey medicinal use for joints. In case of fractures, severe bruises and dislocations, in case of joint diseases, comfrey relieves inflammation and edema, and most importantly, it activates the processes of renewal and regeneration of cartilage.

Outwardly, comfrey is used for dislocations, fractures, bruises, inflammation of the veins, skin diseases, ulcers, wounds, rheumatic pains.

Comfrey root application

In case of joint diseases and injuries, comfrey has no equal as a healing, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic agent, it cleans the lesion, stimulates the formation of new, healthy cells of any biological tissue.

Infusion of comfrey roots:

Pour 1 tablespoon of chopped roots with 1 glass of boiling water, leave for 6 - 8 hours, drain; re-pour the swollen roots with 1 glass of boiling water, leave for 20 - 30 minutes, drain. Mix two parts of the infusion.

Take an infusion of 2 tablespoons (50 ml) every 2 to 3 hours.

It is good to use for chronic bronchitis, catarrh of the respiratory tract. Reduces inflammation, makes it easier to cough up phlegm.

Tincture of comfrey roots:

Pour 100 g of fresh crushed roots with 0.5 l of 40 ° vodka. Insist in a cool dark place for 10 days, drain. Take 20-30 drops 4 - 5 times a day before meals with a little water.

Infusion and tincture of comfrey roots are taken for bone fractures, joint dislocations, severe bruises, osteomyelitis, various wounds, purulent periodontal disease.

Good results are obtained by the use of infusion or tincture inside with their simultaneous application externally in the form of baths, rinses, lotions, compresses.

Infusion and tincture of comfrey roots are used for chronic inflammation, stomach and duodenal ulcers, diarrhea, dysentery, chronic bronchitis- relieves inflammation, pain in the intestines.

The use of infusion of comfrey roots improves metabolism, digestion, increases appetite.

Comfrey root decoction:

One Art. l. roots, pour 1 cup boiling water, boil over low heat for 10 minutes, drain.

The broth is used both internally and externally for joint lesions from rheumatism, for gout, wounds, boils, ulcers and other skin diseases; relieves inflammation, pain and swelling.

Tincture and decoction of comfrey root is taken orally for uterine, hemorrhoidal and other bleeding, with inflammation Bladder.

A decoction of comfrey root is used for nosebleeds - tampons are moistened, injected into the nostrils, for skin wounds, abrasions, for bruises with hemorrhage.

A decoction of comfrey roots is used in cosmetology for dry skin of the face for lotions and poultices with delicate, irritable skin, with redness, peeling.

The broth is used in hair care for alopecia areata - hair loss.

Comfrey roots pair:

10 g of chopped roots pour 300 ml of water or milk in a thermos overnight (leave for 8 hours) or put to steam in the oven (but do not boil).

Take 2 tbsp. spoons (50 g each) every 2 hours for all purulent processes going in the body; clears wounds from purulent inflammation and accelerates healing. Also used for pulmonary tuberculosis.

Juice from fresh stems of a plant and whether powder from comfrey root is used for nosebleeds, powder is sprinkled on wounds, ulcers, abscesses.

Fresh root is applied to wounds to stop bleeding.

Lotions, compresses for dislocations, bruises, fractures are made from comfrey leaves.

Comfrey is a poisonous plant, since the alkaloids included in comfrey are poisonous. Therefore, when administered orally, it is necessary:

• Strictly observe the dosage when preparing and using drugs from comfrey medicinal.
• Use comfrey preparations after consulting your doctor.
• Long-term use of comfrey preparations is unacceptable without consulting a doctor.

Contraindicated:

• with individual intolerance,
• during pregnancy and during breastfeeding.

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Comfrey medicinal use for joints

In our country, there are other types of comfrey - Caucasian comfrey and hard comfrey, they have the same beneficial properties and are used for medicinal purposes.

Caucasian comfrey is distinguished by a higher plant height and soft pubescence, the presence of petioles on the lower leaves, and the type of seeds. Comfrey hard differs in lower leaves, rounded, cordate with a long petiole, and the type of nuts.

Comfrey has been used as a medicinal plant since ancient times. The ancient Greek botanist Theophrastus mentioned him, wrote Dioscorides in 50 AD. BC, the properties of comfrey were described by Avicenna in 1020. In the Middle Ages, comfrey was widely used for many diseases, it was said that it helps against 100 diseases.

With joint diseases and injuries, as a healing, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic agent, comfrey has no equal. Today it is widely used in medicine in many countries.

Comfrey preparations in the pharmacy

Pharmacies sell comfrey preparations for external use, these are balms, creams, gels and ointments: Zhivokost (Comfrey) balm for the body in the area of ​​the joints; Comfrey joins - gels-balms with cinquefoil, with golden mustache, with formic acid; Dr. Theiss comfrey gel, cream; Zhivokost Comfrey warming balm for the body and joints and others.

Homeopathic remedy - Symphitum ointment is used for diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Comfrey extract is used in the composition aromatic oils for baths - heals, moisturizes, softens the skin, promotes rapid cell regeneration, skin health.

Comfrey is a good honey plant, bees collect nectar from flowers, and up to 25 kg of medicinal honey are obtained from 1 hectare of flowering plants.

Young leaves and stems are used for salads.

Comfrey large-flowered and some other species are bred as decorative.

Dear Readers! The article Comfrey useful properties and contraindications we reviewed comfrey medicinal use for joints, and healing properties and medicinal use comfrey for various diseases.

Use healing powers nature and be always healthy!

Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, Professor of the Department. Botanists of the Russian State Agricultural University-Moscow Agricultural Academy named after K.A. Timiryazeva

Genus comfrey ( Symphytum) from the Borage family, there are 19 species, and in addition, interspecific hybrids have been described. First of all, it is the medicinal comfrey mentioned in all books on herbal medicine ( S. officinalis), then a very powerful rough comfrey ( S.asperum Lepech.), And quite small comfrey tuberous (S. tuberosum L.). In the Caucasus, there are comfrey foreign (S.peregrinum Ledeb.) And comfrey Caucasian (S.caucasicus Bieb.). In addition, it is also mentioned that it grows in Europe and the USA. comfrey russian (S.xuplandicum). However, in this case, the botanists disagree. Some equate it with foreign comfrey, and some consider it a hybrid of medicinal and rough comfrey. But we'd better leave this problem to the taxonomists.

They are almost the same in chemical composition and therefore, talking about medicinal properties, we will call them the general word comfrey. Although there are some differences - some species lack individual alkaloids. And comfrey rough and medicinal are very close.

Latin name Symphytum comes from Greek "Symphyeiln"- to grow together, which indicates its traditional use for bone healing in fractures. Since the time of Dioscorides, it has been used as a wound healing agent and for abscesses.

The aboveground mass of comfrey officinalis contains up to 0.2% pyrrolizidine alkaloids (echimidine, symphitin, cinoglossin), glycoalkoloid consolididin, tannins, mucus, choline, and traces of essential oil. Both the aboveground mass and the roots contain a large amount of vitamin B12, its amount is comparable to that of meat and eggs and 4 times more than in yeast! Possessing also low content fiber, it is readily eaten by pets. And, according to some studies, it is the high content of this vitamin that neutralizes the harmful pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the "animal stomachs". It also contains a lot of potassium - almost three times more than in other plants. The herb in folk medicine of Central European countries was used for lung diseases. Now, due to the content of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, they are practically not used.

The root contains allantoin (0.6-0.8%), tannins and mucous substances (fructans), asparagine, triterpene saponins (primarily symphytoxide A), rosmarinic acid, silicon compounds, phytosterol and all the same pyrrolizidine alkaloids (0.3 -0.4%), which should be discussed in more detail. In addition, a new glycoprotein was isolated, which has an anti-inflammatory effect and is of great importance.

Allantoin is a fairly widespread compound in the plant world, which is also abundant in legumes. Scientists attribute this to the fact that bacteria living on the roots are involved in its formation, and in the form of allantoin, nitrogen simply moves in the plant to those places where it is needed for the growth and formation of proteins, nucleic acids, etc. Experiments with labeled nitrogen confirmed this. When bacteria were removed, the content of this substance in soy was found to be negligible. Comfrey also has a lot of "soil friends" and, probably, the high content of this compound has the same reason as in legumes.

Allantoin promotes tissue granulation and regeneration, as well as bone fusion. It has specific osmotic properties - fluid is released through the surface of the wound, washing out bacteria and their waste products. The formation of new cells is enhanced. Choline helps to improve local blood circulation and faster resorption of hematoma. The present rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant effects. Saponin oxide A demonstrates antimicrobial activity.

Previously, comfrey was used for gastritis and even stomach ulcers inside in the form of a decoction, but now they are limited to external use. Although many European cookbooks recommend its young leaves for salads and as a nutritious spinach substitute. In general, the people's experience was at odds with science.

A bit of horror

Allantoin and its aluminum salt (aluminum hydroxide allantoinate) isolated from the roots of comfrey are non-toxic compounds. The toxic effect of comfrey on the body of animals and humans is due to the content in it of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, in particular, cinoglossin, consolidin and laziocarpine, which can cause paralysis of the central nervous system, since they cause a partial blockade of the ganglia, disrupting the conduction of impulses to the striated muscles.

In 1992, suddenly there was a problem with pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Germany has published extremely strict restrictive standards for this group of compounds due to their carcinogenic and toxic effect that they have shown in animal studies. Contained in the roots of comfrey, as well as in the seeds of heliotrope pubescent ( Heliotropium lasiocarpium L.) alkaloid laziocarpine is a fairly toxic compound. Because of this alkaloid and heliotrope seeds containing it, which got into the grain, the inhabitants of Central Asia in 1931-1945. toxic hepatitis was common.

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are carcinogenic. The ability of comfrey to induce the development of liver cancer in experimental animals is associated with simfitin. In addition, the alkaloids laziocarpine and cinoglossin can cause mutations in the body.

The alkaloid laziocarpine b pure form at a dose of 50 ppm / kg body weight causes liver cancer in experimental rodents. Toxicological studies indicate that the addition of 0.5% roots and 8% comfrey leaves to rats' food causes the development of malignant tumors liver and bladder. But at the same time, it should be remembered that there is very little of it in the comfrey and it does not enter the body in its pure form.

Many previously used plants containing these substances were blacklisted, for example, in Germany ... mother and stepmother were banned.

Medicinal uses of comfrey

Despite the dangers described above, in Germany, for example, there is a huge amount of comfrey preparations. Its effectiveness has been confirmed by serious clinical trials. In the formulation of a number of drugs, some changes were simply made (Rectosan, Digestosan, Neopectosan) and internal use comfrey preparations.

Only allowed for use medications comfrey for external use, dental and cosmetic products. Due to teratogenic properties, comfrey preparations should not be used during pregnancy and lactation. Comfrey preparations in Germany are recommended to be used no more than 4-6 weeks per year.

But, as indicated by some literary sources, comfrey roots contain a small amount of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, and they are not a typical alkaloid-containing raw material. Therefore, the remedies from the roots cannot lead to the above toxic manifestations in the body. Despite the significant toxicity of individual comfrey alkaloids, in the scientific and practical literature, we have not found any publications on the lethal toxicity of galenic or novogalenic agents made on the basis of comfrey roots or grass. Rather, a couple of dubious examples wander from one source to another. In general, it seems that this problem is greatly exaggerated. After all, alkaloids were tested in their pure form, and in the plant they are contained with polysaccharides and other substances. But someone has not canceled his strong hemostatic and wound healing effect in case of ulcers and tuberculosis.

In modern medical practice comfrey medicinal products are used in clinical dentistry due to their ability to stimulate and regenerate periodontal cells. Positive results obtained with the use of comfrey officinalis for periodontal disease, including purulent form... For this purpose, rinsing of the mouth with a decoction of comfrey roots was prescribed. It is very popular to combine comfrey with other plants such as basil herb and linden blossom, which significantly enhances the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effect.

For example, a Bulgarian drug for the treatment of this disease is a decoction of comfrey roots, St. John's wort herb, bearberry leaf, dioecious nettle root leaf and soapwort roots. Antiseptics were added to the finished broth: metronidazole, collargol and sodium benzoate. Such a combined decoction in the experiment showed a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect and a positive effect in 78% of patients with periodontal disease. But you can make a decoction at home without chemical ingredients, it will also be quite effective.

Based on allantoin combined with aluminum fluoride, aluminum lactate, chlorhexidine, bisabolol and essential oil peppermint well-known pharmaceutical companies produce gum rinses.

In Romania, a patented ointment with anti-inflammatory, keratolytic and epithelial properties for the treatment of psoriasis, which contains allantoin. V cosmetics this substance fights acne. Clinical observations indicate a high therapeutic effect the use of ointment from the roots of comfrey with annular granuloma, vasculitis, focal scleroderma, trophic ulcers, cracks in the corners of the mouth.

Comfrey remedies have been widely used in homeopathy for over 100 years. Comfrey was introduced to homeopathy based on the knowledge of traditional medicine. As homeopathic remedy Comfrey was first partially tested by McFerlan, who first used it as a poultice as a wound healing agent. Later, Grosserio began to use Symphytum in 30-fold dilution for bone injuries, primarily fractures. Currently, its use has expanded, and modern homeopaths prescribe it not only for bone fractures, but also for paralysis, caries, peptic ulcer stomach and duodenum and hemorrhoids.

How to use comfrey at home

There are a lot of recipes: from the usual decoction to ointments and suppositories. Here's one of the options. Take fresh comfrey root, grate or grind in a meat grinder, sprinkle with corn oil, stir. This mass in the form of a compress is applied to sore veins, burns, wounds, sore joints and ligaments, bruises and bruises. In winter, you can take the powder of dry roots, pour in a little water to make a gruel, again add a few drops of oil and use as described above.

Decoction prepared from 10 g of chopped roots and a glass of water. Boil for 10 minutes, filter and use for compresses.

If you are a fan of aromatherapy, add a few drops of pine and lavender oil to the crushed comfrey roots. Oils complement the action of comfrey, in addition, they exhibit a very strong antimicrobial effect. Lavender was even used in I World war to prevent gangrene. Apply the resulting gruel to a sore spot with sprains, hematomas and other traumatic injuries... The same oils can be added when preparing a comfrey root ointment.

A ointment Prepare as follows: 10 g of comfrey roots, chopped in a meat grinder, mix with 100 g of interior lard or an ointment base. Put this mixture in a water bath for 2-3 hours. After that, while hot, strain through a cloth and store in the refrigerator in a jar. Apply as described above.

Among other things, comfrey ointment is good at stopping nosebleeds.

For the courtyard

V Soviet times Comfrey was one of the promising new forage crops designed to raise animal husbandry. Its protein content is almost the same as in alfalfa, and only 2 times less than in soybeans, including all the essential amino acids that are free from protease inhibitors. And given that he has several mows during the summer, the protein yield per unit area is higher than that of soybeans. In addition, rough comfrey, for example, is a very powerful perennial plant, which weeds cannot withstand. It grows in partial shade, where other crops simply do not grow. And what is interesting, despite the presence of pyrolizidine alkaloids, which German pharmacologists fear, toxic hepatitis and other "pyrrolizidine" charms are not found in them.

In addition, comfrey is sometimes referred to as "green manure". Due to the high content of nitrogen and potassium, it is nutritionally comparable to cow dung. But if you do decide to grow this plant, find a shaded place for it somewhere away from flower beds and other cultivated plants. It becomes a vicious weed with a very deep root, and its behavior resembles spreading horseradish over a plot.

And comfrey is also a wonderful melliferous plant: hard comfrey gives 101.5-227.1 kg / ha of honey, Caucasian comfrey - 114.5-205.0, foreign comfrey - 116.6-127.5 medicinal comfrey - 79.6- 181.2 kg / ha, and this is also with a fairly long flowering.

You can sow it with seeds or transplant the root. Then self-seeding is already abundantly formed - try to remove it from places not intended for it in time.

Photo: Maxim Minin, Rita Brilliantova