The comfrey plant contains many healing properties both in its leaves and its roots. It is important to understand the proper use of this plant in order to utilize its benefits.
Comfrey
Comfrey, also known as Knitbone, is well known for it's ability to treat muscle tissue, bone damage and skin abrasions. Both its leave and its roots are in the form of oils and poultices to heal wounds and aching or broken bones.
Nutrients
The same types of nutrients are found through the entire plant, but certain of its properties are more concentrated in certain areas. For this reason, it is important to know exactly use comfrey to treat a specific ailment.
Root vs. Leaf
There are differences in the toxin levels of comfrey leaves and roots, making it dangerous if used improperly. These toxins, called pyrrolizidine alkaloids, are more highly concentrated in the root than the leaves, making the root more dangerous for consumption. The Herbal Remedies website suggests that comfrey can be taken internally in small doses to ease such ailments as arthritis and ulcers.
External Use
Comfrey is more commonly used externally, and both the roots and leaves are beneficial in controlled doses.
Research
Be sure to perform plenty of research before using comfrey, as it's potentially harmful effects are still being investigated.
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