2010;73(2):97-100. Information offered on Herbal Academy websites is for educational purposes only. Commercial comfrey sale and distribution is restricted in Germany and Canada because of its substantial toxicity. Am J Med 1990;89:547-8. This could change the effects and side effects of comfrey. 2017;65(1):363-373. doi:10.1002/hep.28813. 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). Comfrey is not recommended for internal use because of the liver damage caused by its pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Giannetti, B. M., Staiger, C., Bulitta, M., & Predel, H. G. (2010). Other uses not proven with research have included skin wounds, skin ulcers, cough, sore throat, gum disease, joint pain, diarrhea, and other conditions. How do you use it and are there any side effects? Avoid comfrey with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease. Registered VAT no. After 2-4 weeks have passed, strain the root from the alcohol using a coffee filter inserted in a wire mesh strainer or similar setup. Definitely do not use during pregnancy or nursing, with infants, and if you have liver or kidney disease. This is because only a small amount of the pyrrolizidine alkaloids are absorbed through the skin (. Phytother Res. When harvesting comfrey or buying from a non-commercial supplier, note that there is variety within the species. Recent studies have suggested topical benefits, but more research is needed. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. Choose organically grown comfrey when possible. Comfrey is not recommended for children under three years old, as it's not been studied in that population. WMW Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift, 154(21), 498-507. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10354-004-0114-8, Natural Medicines (2020). Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 5 Feb 2023), Cerner Multum (updated 22 Feb 2023), ASHP (updated 12 Feb 2023) and others. The chemicals contained in comfrey may cause birth defects. View abstract. Therapeutic use of comfrey is limited because of its toxicity. Comfrey contains chemicals that cause serious liver damage when taken by mouth. 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. Registered in England: company no. Rad. Aust.Fam.Physician 2008;37(4):235-236. Centurian, South Africa: Medpharm Scientific Publishers. Koll, R., Buhr, M., Dieter, R., Pabst, H., Predel, H. G., Petrowicz, O., Giannetti, B., Klingenburg, S., and Staiger, C. Efficacy and tolerance of a comfrey root extract (Extr. Lewis, C. J. FDA Advises Dietary Supplement Manufacturers to Remove Comfrey Products From the Market. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties Customer Reviews Ingredients Full ingredients Brassica Campest is Seed Oil (Rapeseed Oil), Symphytum Officinale Herb (Comfrey Herb), BHA, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil (Eucalyptus Oil). 2012;20(11):1209-1216. Comfrey has also been used for the following conditions: There is currently not enough evidence to recommend comfrey cream for any of these uses. Roeder E. Medicinal plants in Europe containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Although topical comfrey has been used for this indication, there's little evidence that it helps and can pose a big risk for nursing babies. This site uses cookies to improve your experience. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements. Please read the Topical Use Safety section of this article (above) before using. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020. Hybrids and other species may have a similar appearance but could have significantly different amounts of the toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (Kucera et al., 2018). CBD oils being bought in high street stores such as Boots and Holland & Barrett are weak, low quality and don't provide the actual therapeutic advantages. Add comfy to Vaseline . Ther Drug Monit 2001;23:698-708. Choose a supplement tested by a trusted third party, such as USP, ConsumerLabs, or NSF when possible. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label. Kucera, M., Barna, M., Horacek, O., Kalal, J., Kucera, A., and Hladikova, M. Topical symphytum herb concentrate cream against myalgia: a randomized controlled double-blind clinical study. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. 2004;154(21-22):498-507. More research is needed. Tunon, H., Olavsdotter, C., and Bohlin, L. Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of some Swedish medicinal plants. Supplements marketed for body-building (ex.. Treatment with 4Jointz reduces knee pain over 12 weeks of treatment in patients with clinical knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled trial. After the consistency begins to thicken, turn the mixer up a little bit. Comfrey may have been applied to the skin in a specific preparation to treat some of these conditions. Comfrey cream contains several active components (substances). Herbal medicine for low back pain: A Cochrane review, Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know, Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (blockage of veins in the liver). Stewart MJ, Steenkamp V. Pyrrolizidine poisoning: a neglected area in human toxicology. Can comfrey be used for cracked nipples during breastfeeding? 2004;11(6):470-477. Although not examined in clinical trials, comfrey may possess antifungal and anticancer activity. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are very toxic to the liver and are also carcinogenic (cause cancer). In Western Europe, comfrey has been used topically for treating inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, gout, and thrombophlebitis, and internally for treating diarrhea. An Evidence-Based Reference. View abstract. View abstract. The leaves and stems of comfrey contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause toxic damage if ingested in excess (Ulbricht, 2010). Stam, C., Bonnet, M. S., & van Haselen, R. A. This leads to cirrhosis and eventually liver failure. View abstract. All rights reserved. In some cases, ointments with comfrey have caused redness, itching, and a rash (Smith, 2011). In 2001, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned oral comfrey products. She is passionate about providing evidence-based recommendations that make health decisions easier and improve lives. Comfrey is a plant also known as Ass Ear, Black Root, Blackwort, Bruisewort, Consolidae Radix, Consound, Consoude, Consuelda, Gum Plant, Healing Herb, Herbe aux Charpentiers, Herbe la Coupure, Knitback, Knitbone, Langue-de-Vache, Oreille d'ne, Salsify, Slippery Root, Symphytum officinale, or Wallwort. The ointment has a very mild herbal fragrance and is soothing on application. View abstract. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose. The recipe makes about 6 small jars. A handbook for practice on a scientific basis. The recipe makes about 5 cups of whipped creamy lotion. (2004). Sometimes, massaging on topical ointments can help reduce pain and inflammation. J Chiropr Med. 2011;10(3):147-56. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2011.01.003, Laslett LL, Quinn SJ, Darian-Smith E, et al. Additionally, because its alkaloids are absorbed through the skin, use of comfrey as a poultice should not exceed an exposure of 100 mcg/day of the alkaloids. This makes quite a thick rich cream good for a body cream and an all healing cream . Since these toxic substances can be absorbed through the skin, there's concern about the safety of comfrey cream applied topically. 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. Shop buy 1 get 1 half price on all gut health products, Buy 1 get 1 Half Price | Plus an extra 20% off 25, App Exclusive | Get an extra 22% off 25 when you spend on the H&B App, Royal Mail strikes may cause a delay to our click and collect service, Looking for fitness advice & inspiration this New Year? Potters Comfrey Oil | Holland & Barrett Shop our range of Potter's Herbals products at Holland & Barrett, including Potters Comfrey Oil. Comfrey is a flowering shrub that grows in Europe, Asia and, now, North America. Dosage: How Much Comfrey Cream Should I Use? In a small study with 30 subjects, lower back pain from exercise was reduced with an ointment containing comfrey. View abstract. randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multi-clinical trial. 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! In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involving 120 patients with acute back pain, symptoms were quickly reduced in the group using 4 grams of an ointment containing 35% comfrey root extract 3x/day for 5 days (Giannetti et al., 2010). Avoid with medications that induce CYP3A4 or are hepatotoxic (Natural Medicines, 2020). We go to great efforts to ensure that the information on this page is accurate at the time that the page was last edited. #HBTechCareers. Symphytum officinale L., dermal use (Flexagile cream)]. Comfrey contains toxic substances that cause liver damage, cancer, and death. 2011;10(3):147-56. J Chin Med.Assoc. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. Comfrey may be used topically as a cream, ointment, salve, or paste. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. 12 drops black pepper (Piper nigrum) essential oil Efficacy and safety of comfrey root extract ointment in the treatment of acute upper or lower back pain: Results of a double-blind, randomised, placebo controlled, multicentre trial. Staiger, C. Comfrey root: from tradition to modern clinical trials. A member of the borage family, comfrey root, leaves, and stems have an obvious coat of bristly hair. Company number 02758955 Registered VAT number 211727395. View abstract. Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Herbal drugs and phytopharmaceuticals. Ulbricht, C. (2010). Grube, B., Grunwald, J., Krug, L., and Staiger, C. Efficacy of a comfrey root (Symphyti offic. It can grow up to 5 feet tall. As we are constantly reviewing and developing our products to meet our consumer needs, consumers, particularly those that suffer from allergies and intolerances, should always check product labelling, warnings, and directions provided with the product that is delivered, prior to use or consumption. 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. Two interesting studies found that a topical application of a product containing comfrey root extract helped with knee pain and stiffness. Comfrey can also contain echimidine, pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), and symphytine, which can damage the liver, are carcinogenic (cancer-causing) and may harm a fetus. Arzneimittelforschung, 62(06), 285-289. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-007-0474-y, Giannetti, B. M., Staiger, C., Bulitta, M., & Predel, H. G. (2010). Do not use comfrey with very young children or during pregnancy or lactation. View abstract. Remove from heat. Pabst H, Schaefer A, Staiger C, Junker-samek M, Predel HG. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. Please simply create an account before buying/booking any courses. . This is done by soaking the root in at least 50% alcohol for a minimum of two weeks. Topical comfrey is for use only on the skin. 2 Comfrey cream contains several active components (substances). Comfrey is an herb in the Boraginaceae family and has small purple flowers. As the consistency thickens some more, turn the mixer up a little bit more. Drug-induced liver injury. Other prescription medicines that may harm the liver include: Some supplements may also harm the liver, including: It is essential to carefully read a supplement's ingredient list and nutrition facts panel to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. A member of the borage family, comfrey root, leaves, and stems have an obvious coat of bristly hair. Do not use extra comfrey to make up the missed dose. Heat oil in double boiler gently then add beeswax until it melts. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010538, Smith DB, Jacobson BH. Knit bone, Eucalyptus, Rapeseed Oil, BHA. Comfrey root extracts have been used by herbalists and in folk traditions for centuries to soothe aches and pains. Additionally, there is scientific research demonstrating comfreys effectiveness at soothing muscle and joint pain, some of which are highlighted in this post. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released an advisory in July 2001 recommending that comfrey products be removed from the market because of cases of hepatic veno-occlusive disease. This site uses cookies to improve your experience. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-007-0474-y. Mazzocchi, A. and Montanaro, F. Observational study of the use of Symphytum 5CH in the management of pain and swelling after dental implant surgery. 2014;20(4):347-55. 2013;21(6):724-745. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2013.09.009. Discontinue use if a rash develops. Using a supplement like comfrey may have potential side effects. Grube, B., Grnwald, J., Krug, L., & Staiger, C. (2007). Label with the ingredients and date made. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. J Pain. Effect of a blend of comfrey root extract (Symphytum officinale L.) and tannic acid creams in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multiclinical trials. Comfrey is likley unsafe to take by mouth. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. HOLLAND & BARRETT PRO VITAMIN E DAY CREAM 50ML This Vitamin E day cream works with your skin daily to hydrate and protect your skin. radix) extract ointment in the treatment of patients with painful osteoarthritis of the knee: Results of a double-blind, randomised, bicenter, placebo-controlled trial. Barthomeuf, C. M., Debiton, E., Barbakadze, V. V., and Kemertelidze, E. P. Evaluation of the dietetic and therapeutic potential of a high molecular weight hydroxycinnamate-derived polymer from Symphytum asperum Lepech. 2013;5(5):CD010538. After the tincture is made, then you can whip up the fabulous joint and muscle cream! Symphytum officinale), store bought or via recipe, above. Kucera, M., Barna, M., Horacek, O., Kovarikova, J., and Kucera, A. Efficacy and safety of topically applied Symphytum herb extract cream in the treatment of ankle distortion: results of a randomized controlled clinical double blind study. The leaves and stems of comfrey contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause toxic damage if ingested in excess (Ulbricht, 2010). Satisfaction. 1. Mix for about 10 minutes, until nice and whipped. Efficacy and safety of topically applied Symphytum herb extract cream in the treatment of ankle distortion: Results of a randomized controlled clinical double-blind study. Apply a small amount (not to exceed a teaspoon) topically 2-3x/day for up to 2 weeks. Hepatology. View abstract. In Western Europe, comfrey has been used topically for treating inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, gout, and thrombophlebitis, and internally for treating diarrhea. 95 ($14.78/Fl Oz) FREE delivery Wed, Mar 8 on $25 of items shipped by Amazon. The comfrey plant, Symphytum officinale, gets its name from the Latin confervere, meaning to grow together. (2018). Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Comfrey oil shouldnt be used for cooking, like other types of cooking oil. Published 2021 Sep 20. doi:10.1590/1519-6984.249209, Frost R, MacPherson H, O'Meara S. A critical scoping review of external uses of comfrey (Symphytum spp.). As a Licensed Massage Therapist, I have personally made this comfrey cream recipe multiple times and given jars to my clients. Copyright Holland & Barrett Retail Limited, 2022. Comfrey [Online article]. Comfrey has been claimed to heal gastric ulcers and hemorrhoids, and to suppress bronchial congestion and inflammation. Mackinnon, M. In general practice, 'always expect the unexpected'. Efficacy and tolerance of a comfrey root extract (Extr. Eucalyptus oil is used externally to stimulate blood flow. Wien Med Wochenschr. 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. 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. When the root is boiled in water, it forms a sticky, glue-like paste. Jurcu, R., & Jurcu, I. Also, avoid use for more than two weeks or excessive concentrations containing more than 100 mcg of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (Wichtl, 2004 & Ulbricht, 2010). J Chiropr Med. (10), 707-714. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2005.06.001. June 3, 2022 Posted by: Category: Uncategorized; No Comments . To reduce the risk of side effects, never apply comfrey cream to broken skin or open wounds as it may be more highly absorbed by the body. Be sure to choose organic carrier oils and essential oils when possible. Comfrey has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating back pain, osteoarthritis, or tenderness and swelling caused by a sprain injury. View abstract. Koll R, Klingenburg S. [Therapeutic characteristance and tolerance of topical comfrey preparations. Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. 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. Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. 2013;163(3-4):58-64. Browse our Sports Hub, Get 20% student discount with Student Beans, Discover the latest natural beauty products. For External Use only Do not use if you are sensitive to any of the ingredients. Jedlinszki, N., Balzs, B., Csnyi, E., & Csupor, D. (2017). In another study, participants with ankle sprains received either comfrey root extract cream or diclofenac gel, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). All rights reserved. Topical preparations of comfrey are generally safe provided they are not applied excessively or to an open wound. Registered office: Samuel Ryder House, Barling Way, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 7RH. (2004). (21), 498-507. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10354-004-0114-8, Natural Medicines (2020). Store comfrey cream according to package instructions, typically at room temperature and out of reach of children and pets. Bagheri Z, Azizi A, Oshvandi K, Mohammadi Y, Larki-Harchegani A. We currently have no information for COMFREY overview. The plant has a long history in folk and ancient herbal treatments before comfrey is . Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments. Safety Alerts & Advisories: FDA Advises Dietary Supplement Manufacturers to Remove Comfrey Products From the Market. It is called knitbone or boneset, referring to the bone-like growth of its roots. Comfrey is a fast-growing plant whose leaves and roots have been used historically for wound healing and other conditions. View abstract. Registered VAT no. However, it did not affect markers of inflammation or cartilage breakdown over 12 weeks of treatment. hollandandbarrett.com is a trading name of Holland & Barrett Retail Limited,. Herb & Supplement Guide. Arzneimittelforschung. Copyright Holland & Barrett Limited 2023. When the root is boiled in water, it forms a sticky, glue-like paste. It should only be used in small amounts for short periods as a cream. Make sure to always buy comfrey (Symphytum officianale) root and leaf from a trusted source. Comfrey is changed and broken down by the liver. One study in 120 patients with acute upper or lower back pain used either four grams (g) of comfrey root ointment or a placebo (sham treatment) three times daily for five days. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Some medications can also harm the liver. Essential oils are a whole new world in themselves & the benefits of using them are widespread. 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. Comfrey. Like any new treatment, discontinue use if any irritation occurs. Wichtl, M. (2004). Avoid use. A few studies show that comfrey cream may be helpful in the treatment of ankle sprains. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease. 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. Check regularly, but it should take about six weeks for all the leaves to break down into a thick, black liquid. Centurian, South Africa: Medpharm Scientific Publishers. Whether youve been hiking, biking, playing, or enjoying water sports, comfrey cream can be a wonderful ally in supporting achy muscles that result from physical, summertime activities. 211727395. Electric bowl mixer (like a KitchenAid) or a blender Complement Ther Med. Molecules. Phytomedicine, 14(1), 2-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2006.11.006, Jedlinszki, N., Balzs, B., Csnyi, E., & Csupor, D. (2017). To make this recipe, first, you must prepare the comfrey root tincture. Toe was infected and painful. Taking comfrey along with a medication that can harm the liver might increase the risk of liver damage. It contains chemicals that are poisonous. DOI:10.1211/PJ.2021.1.69803. 211727395. After eight days, the group that used the cream had significantly less pain than those who had the placebo. CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. Comfrey is traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor sprains and bruises and is also known for its healing properties. Stop using comfrey and call your healthcare provider at once if you have: liver problems--nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Cover, but leave a small air opening. Penetration of lycopsamine from a comfrey ointment through human epidermis. Avila C, Breakspear I, Hawrelak J, Salmond S, Evans S. A systematic review and quality assessment of case reports of adverse events for borage (Borago officinalis), coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) and comfrey (Symphytum officinale). Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Smith, D. B., & Jacobson, B. H. (2011). Wien Med Wochenschr. The Comfrey Controversy: Can and Should One Use Comfrey Internally? Join rewards for life today and we'll give you 300 points worth 3.00. Undergoingmassage or taking up yoga may help alleviate pain and help people with back or joint problems function more easily. This perennial can grow up to 4-feet tall. Additionally, use on a deep cut may encourage healing of the outer skin the preparation comes in direct contact with faster than the deeper tissue, leading to abscess. 2012;101(4):211-216. Bhupesh started his career as a Clinical Toxicologist for Public Health England, advising healthcare professionals all around the country on how to manage clinical cases of adverse exposure to supplements, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, industrial chemicals and agricultural products. Save the remaining liquid alcohol portion. This is not recommended due to the presence of chemicals that can cause organ damage and cancer. The ankle swelling decreased by 79.5% in the comfrey root group and 69.4% in the diclofenac group. You should never ingest comfrey by mouth. Kucera, A., Barna, M., Holcova, S., Horacek, O., Hladikov, M., & Ottillinger, B. doi:10.1002/ptr.4612, Salehi B, Sharopov F, Boyunegmez Tumer T, et al. By Megan Nunn, PharmD Follow all directions on the product label and package. Patients with hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to the plant should also avoid external use. 2010;44(9):637-41. doi:10.1136/bjsm.2009.058677, Cameron M, Chrubasik S. Topical herbal therapies for treating osteoarthritis. It's typically only used in small amounts for a very short period. They help us to understand how people use the website and give us the ability to provide targeted marketing to you. Lorem ipsum dolor sit nulla or narjusto laoreet onse ctetur adipisci. Comfrey oil is made by infusing the leaves and roots of a comfrey plant with a neutral oil. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Available at: https://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/dspltr06.html. Potters Herbal Comfrey Oil is a soothing aromatic herbal massage oil. Nutrition C for FS and A. Rad. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. As an additional measure of efficacy, groups instructed to use the comfrey preparation for the longest period of time experienced the most improvement. However, comfrey can also contain toxic substances called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that cause liver damage, cancer, and death. Comfrey cream Topical preparations of comfrey are generally safe provided they are not applied excessively or to an open wound. This recipe is contraindicated for small children and those with certain medical conditions. Preclinical studies suggest that oral comfrey has antiproliferative effects , and a topical formulation showed wound healing properties . 2013;163:5864 (2013) doi:10.1007/s10354-012-0162-4, Giannetti BM, Staiger C, Bulitta M, Predel HG. Barna, M., Kucera, A., Hladicova, M., and Kucera, M. [Wound healing effects of a Symphytum herb extract cream (Symphytum x uplandicum NYMAN: ): results of a randomized, controlled double-blind study]. View abstract. Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know. Some drugs increase how quickly the liver changes and breaks down comfrey. Complementary Health Approaches for Chronic Pain: What the Science Says. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 220 patients with knee osteoarthritis used either a commercial topical comfrey root extract or a placebo. Rad. Which part of the comfrey plant has the lowest level of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs)? Predel, H. G., Giannetti, B., Koll, R., Bulitta, M., and Staiger, C. Efficacy of a comfrey root extract ointment in comparison to a diclofenac gel in the treatment of ankle distortions: results of an observer-blind, randomized, multicenter study. And topical capsaicin cream may help to relieve pain temporarily.