Comfrey for strains, sprains and broken bones

General uses
Acne and boils: apply comfrey ointment or cream to the pus-filled area twice a day.

Inflamed skin rashes: apply comfrey ointment or cream to the affected areas two to four times a day. Or make an infusion with one tsp of the dried herb to a cup of hot water, and then apply on cotton wool.

Minor wounds and bruises: apply comfrey ointment at the edges of the wound or use a comfrey poultice once a scab has formed. For the poultice, take enough fresh or dried herb to cover the area, simmer in a pan for two minutes, and squeeze out excess liquid. Rub a little oil on to the area to prevent sticking then apply the hot herb. Bandage securely in place using gauze or cotton strips and leave for up to three hours.

Sprains and fractures: gently rub on comfrey ointment, cream or infused oil at least three times a day on the affected area. Make comfrey oil with 250 g dried comfrey of 500 g fresh herb and 750 ml of olive, sunflower or other good quality vegetable oil. Simmer, covered, in a glass bowl over a pan of boiling water for two–three hours. Cool and strain through gauze or muslin. Pour into clean dark bottles and label.

Please note: you should always seek professional treatment for broken bones, fractures and severe sprains.

Stiff and aching joints: mix two and a half tbs of comfrey oil with 20–40 drops of lavender essential oil and gently massage into the affected area.

Caution

• Do not take preparations containing comfrey root internally
• Do not use comfrey preparations on broken skin; for wounds apply around the edges only