Comfrey ointment and gel will relieve your muscles and joints
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a herb up to one metre tall that can be found along the banks of ponds, rivers and streams, in wet meadows or fields. Its stem and leaves are covered with tiny hairs and in summer it blooms pinkish-purple flowers that attract bees and bumblebees from far and wide.
But comfrey does so much more than adorn the European landscape. It is one of those traditional herbs that has been widely used in natural medicine since the 12th century. In the Middle Ages, it was most often used to heal broken limbs. Although nowadays we have more effective methods for treating fractures, comfrey ointment still enjoys great popularity not only among fans of herbal medicine for its positive effects on sore muscles, joints and tendons.
Comfrey: Effects and properties
Comfrey contains a variety of beneficial substances - the highest concentration can be found in its root, stems and leaves. It is these parts of the plant that are used in the production of comfrey preparations, and most often the comfrey root.
It is rich in essential oils, resins, sterols, alkaloids, starches, rosmarinic acid and mucilaginous substances. The key component of comfrey is allantoin, which has beneficial effects on the human musculoskeletal system and promotes wound healing.
Comfrey: Effects on the human body
- It has a soothing and relaxing effect on body tissue.
- Revitalises muscles, ligaments and tendons.
- It warms and helps with blood circulation.
- It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Relieves pain thanks to its allantoin content.
Not only will the effects of comfrey be appreciated by seniors, but also by athletes or people with physically demanding jobs who are on their feet all day.
Preparations with comfrey: Comfrey tincture, ointment and gel
Comfrey applications
Are you suffering from heavy and tired legs, strained and stiff muscles or joints? Bet on comfrey ointment.
- Comfrey ointment: ointment from the comfrey leaves or its root will help with muscle, tendon and joint pain and fatigue. It is perfect for massaging a strained area, after which you will feel instant relief. Is a strong comfrey ointment needed? The effects of comfrey are strengthened with camphor, which can be found as an additional ingredient in some comfrey ointments.
- Comfrey balm: May have a thicker, greasier texture compared to ointment, which is slower to absorb.
- Comfrey gel: Comfrey gel is ideal for those who do not like the feel of greasy skin. You can choose a cooling gel, which has effects similar to a cold compress, or a warming gel, which promotes recovery after a strain.
- Comfrey oil: Excellent as a massage oil and promotes regeneration.
Comfrey extract
Another method in which to take advantage of the beneficial effects of comfrey is an extract.
- Comfrey tincture: Comfrey tincture is an extract of the herb in alcohol, which can also be used to massage a painful area for relief. Compared to the ointment, it has a higher concentration of active ingredients, but the disadvantage is that the alcohol contained in the tincture dries out the skin.
- Comfrey tea: We are all familiar with tea, or the infusion of herbs in water. But be warned! Although traditional herbal medicine also speaks of the internal use of comfrey, based on current knowledge, internal use is not recommended. This is due to the pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can cause liver damage with long-term use. If you decide to try comfrey tea anyway, never consume it in high doses and limit your tea drinking to a maximum of two weeks.
Other applications
- Comfrey wrap: You can prepare a comfrey wrap with a tincture or ointment. Apply a larger amount of comfrey ointment to the wrap or soak it in a tincture. Wrap it so that it stays in place and leave it on overnight. You'll be good as new in the morning!
Are products with comfrey also suitable during pregnancy?
Comfrey is not recommended for pregnant women. Internal use of comfrey is prohibited for pregnant and breastfeeding women. And what about comfrey ointment during pregnancy? It depends on the concentration and composition. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if comfrey ointment is suitable for you and have them recommend a product.
Treat yourself to the benefits of this traditional herb proven over the centuries! The best comfrey ointment, balm and gel are waiting for you at notino.co.uk.