Comfrey: Forage and Grow For Health; Includes Recipes

This article will teach you everything you need to know about Comfrey. How to grow it in your garden or forage it if you don’t have space. Comfrey is a fabulous medicinal herb with benefits for humans and animals. In addition, comfrey supports the other plants in your garden.

Comfrey is native to Europe and Asia and spread to the Americas where it naturalized. Thirty-four species are recognized around the globe. It is also known by the names boneset and knitbone because it has been used historically to heal wounds and set bones.

Comfrey is an easy-to-grow, vigorous, and hardy plant.

Are Russian Comfrey, Common comfrey, and Wild Comfrey The Same Plant?

No, Symphytum officinale (common comfrey), Andersonglossum virginianum (wild comfrey) Symphytum uplandicum (Russian Comfrey) are not the same but are all in the borage family.

Common comfrey is a member of the genus Symphytum in the borage family, Boraginaceae. This is the plant we typically grow in our gardens.

Wild comfrey is a native perennial in the eastern US It is also called blue houndstongue.

Russian Comfrey is a cultivar that was developed for the herbal market. The Bocking 14 cultivar is a sterile hybrid that won’t go to seed however, is still able to spread by root cuttings.

Foraging for Comfrey

Identification:

• Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a perennial herb with large, hairy leaves, prickly stems, and bell-shaped purple or white flowers.

• Look for comfrey in moist, shaded areas such as riverbanks, meadows, and woodland edges.

Ethical Harvesting:

1. Harvest only what you need and leave enough plants to regenerate and support local wildlife. Wildlife such as deer and ducks will eat small amounts of comfrey. In addition, wild comfrey is a great food for wild insects.

Timing:

1. Comfrey is best harvested in spring or early summer when the leaves are young and vibrant.

2. Avoid harvesting during flowering as the plant's energy is focused on producing flowers and seeds.

Harvesting

1. Cut the leaves near the base of the plant, leaving some leaves to support its growth.

2. Avoid damaging the crown of the plant, which is where new growth originates.

Growing Comfrey

We know that comfrey has been cultivated since at least 400 B.C. as a healing herb. It was often brought with persons who immigrated to new areas, helping to spread the crop around the world.

It is an easy garden plant and grows well in Zones 3-9. In fact, it can handle temps down to -35 degrees Fahrenheit!

Comfrey begins growth in early April and by early May compact clusters of young leaves are visible in the crown of the old plant. Flowering starts in late May or early June and continues until fall.

Comfrey is drought-resistant due to its deep root system and is also very frost-resistant. It has a long lifespan of more than 20 years.

Check out my gardening books on Amazon.

Selecting Comfrey Varieties:

There are two types of comfrey commonly sold.

Russian comfrey (Symphytum × uplandicum) or Bocking 14. Russian comfrey features blue or violet flowers. Fedco recommends this variety as a companion plant for orchards.

Common or true comfrey (Symphytum officinale). Common comfrey has cream or purple flowers. Seeds for True Comfrey are available on Amazon.

Location

Comfrey thrives in rich, moist soil with good drainage and will do well in partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate a wide range of light conditions but prefers some shade in hot climates. Mine has thrived with morning sun and afternoon shade.

Preparing the Soil

Loosen the soil and remove any weeds or debris from the planting area. Incorporate lots of compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility.

Planting Comfrey:

Comfrey can be propagated from seeds, root divisions, or cuttings. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden or started indoors and transplanted after the last frost.

For transplants, plant them in well-prepared soil with the crown (where the leaves emerge) just below the soil surface.

You can also beg, borrow or steal (joking) a piece of root 4-6 inches long. Plant the root horizontally about two inches deep and keep it moist.

Comfrey is best planted in spring but can be planted anytime from April to September. Give it one to two years to get established before harvesting.

Spacing

Space comfrey plants about 3 feet apart to allow for their spreading growth habit. Comfrey is an excellent weed competitor due to its rapid and dense growth.

Watering and Care

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods. Especially young plants that are developing their root system. Once they are three years old the plants are quite drought tolerant.

Mulch around young plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In colder climates, mulch around your plants to protect the roots during freezing temperatures.

Fertilizing

Comfrey generally does not need additional fertilizer. I do put a layer of compost around my plants in the spring. However, if your plants are showing stress from insects or disease then I would spray with fish emulsion for some added nutrients.

Pruning and Harvesting

I do not trim or prune my comfrey plants, except at the normal harvest times.

I let them get established in the first year. In the second year, I may harvest 1/4 of the leaves in mid-summer but no roots yet. In the third season, you can harvest some roots.

For established plants, I harvest leaves throughout the season whenever I need them. I harvest roots in late fall.

INVASION!!

Managing Spread

Comfrey has a spreading root system and can become invasive, even worse then mint. Think about where you plant it in the garden. I have planted comfrey in the herb garden and a corner of the vegetable garden and have been happy with that.

If you have a small garden area, consider planting comfrey in containers. A half whisky barrel is a good size since they do need space for their roots.

Pests and Diseases

Comfrey is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. Watch for aphids, slugs, and snails, especially on new growth, and treat as with Neem Oil or Diatomacious Earth. It can also get downy or powdery mildew.

Check out my YouTube channel

Health Benefits for Humans

I recommend talking with a trusted healing professional before using comfrey. Caution should be used because it contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which can be toxic if consumed or applied over prolonged periods. While external use is generally considered safe, internal consumption or excessive use should be avoided.

There have been many studies done on Comfrey’s benefits that you can find below in the resources section.

Comfrey salve can be used to treat:

• Bruises

• Chapped lips

• Dry skin

• Fine lines

• Fractures

• Inflammation from sprains and broken bones

• Pulled muscles and ligaments

• Rashy redness

• Sore nipples

• Strains 

Comfrey has been traditionally used for centuries in herbal medicine for various purposes. One of its key benefits is its ability to support skin health and wound healing. Comfrey contains allantoin, a compound known for its regenerative properties. When applied topically, comfrey can help soothe minor burns, cuts, and bruises, promoting faster healing and reducing inflammation.

The allantoin content of comfrey, especially in the root, has resulted in its use in herbal medicine for healing wounds, sores, burns, swollen tissue, and broken bones. Allantoin affects the rate of cell multiplication. Wounds and burns heal faster when allantoin is applied due to a possible increase in the number of white blood cells. Comfrey has been reported to promote healthy skin with its mucilage content that moisturizes and soothes, while allantoin promotes cell proliferation.

Comfrey has been used to alleviate joint and muscle discomfort. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular choice for herbal remedies targeting conditions like arthritis, sprains, and strains. Comfrey-based creams or poultices can be applied externally to affected areas, providing relief and supporting the body's natural healing processes.

See Recipes For Making Comfrey Products Below

Health Benefits for Animals

Nutrient-Rich Forage: Comfrey is a highly nutritious herbal supplement for livestock. Its leaves are rich in proteins, minerals (such as calcium, potassium, and phosphorus), and vitamins (such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin B12). Including comfrey in grazing areas or as part of a feed, supplement can help provide essential nutrients to livestock.

Some animals such as rabbits may not like the fresh leaves due to the hairs but will eat the wilted forage.

Protein content of comfrey dry matter (15 to 30%) is about as high as legumes

Livestock Benefits

1. Digestive Health: Comfrey contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that can soothe and support digestive health in livestock. It may help with gastrointestinal issues such as mild constipation or diarrhea by providing a protective lining in the digestive tract.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Similar to its benefits for humans, comfrey's anti-inflammatory properties can benefit livestock. It may help reduce inflammation in joints and muscles, making it useful for animals experiencing discomfort or stiffness.

3. Wound Healing: Comfrey's ability to promote wound healing can be beneficial for livestock as well. Topical application of comfrey-based poultices or creams can aid in the healing of minor wounds, cuts, and abrasions on animals.

4. Supports Overall Health: The nutrient profile of comfrey contributes to overall health in livestock. It can support immune function, bone health, and general vitality when included as part of a balanced diet.

5. Reduces Parasite Load: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that comfrey may have properties that help reduce internal parasite loads in livestock. While more research is needed in this area, including comfrey in a diversified forage system may contribute to parasite control strategies.

Livestock should not have unrestricted access to comfrey, especially in large quantities, due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) that can be harmful in excess.

I typically think of comfrey as a supplement. In particular, I feel a few leaves given to dairy goats in spring in beneficial to lactation and overall health.

Benefits for the Garden:

1. Comfrey is a dynamic accumulator and nutrient-rich mulch.

2. Improving soil fertility and structure.

3. Companion planting with comfrey and its impact on nearby plants.

Comfrey offers several benefits to other plants in the garden, making it a valuable addition to a diverse and sustainable gardening system. One of its primary benefits is its role as a dynamic accumulator of nutrients. It is rich in silica, nitrogen, magnesium, calcium, potassium and iron

Comfrey has deep taproots that can reach down into the soil, drawing up minerals and nutrients such as potassium, phosphorus, and calcium. When the leaves of comfrey are cut and used as mulch or added to compost, these nutrients become readily available to nearby plants, enriching the soil and promoting healthy growth.

Furthermore, comfrey's fast growth and large leaves create a dense canopy that helps suppress weeds. By shading the soil and preventing weed growth, comfrey reduces competition for nutrients and water, allowing neighboring plants to thrive. Its dense root system also improves soil structure, enhancing water retention and aeration in the garden beds.

Comfrey is also known for its allelopathic properties, which means it produces biochemicals that can inhibit the growth of certain weeds and pests. While this can be advantageous for weed control, it's essential to use comfrey strategically and avoid planting it too close to sensitive crops that may be affected by its allelopathic effects.

Additionally, comfrey can act as a beneficial companion plant, attracting pollinators such as bees with its flowers. The presence of pollinators can improve fruit set and yield in nearby plants, contributing to a more productive garden ecosystem. Overall, comfrey's ability to enrich the soil, suppress weeds, deter pests, and attract pollinators makes it a valuable ally for promoting overall garden health and productivity.

Things you can make with comfrey

1. Comfrey Salve: A soothing salve made by infusing comfrey leaves or roots in a carrier oil like olive oil and then combining it with beeswax to create a healing balm for minor cuts, bruises, and skin irritations.

   2. Comfrey Tea: A nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer can be made by steeping comfrey leaves in water. This tea is excellent for feeding plants, promoting growth, and enhancing soil fertility.

   3. Comfrey Poultice: A paste made by mashing fresh comfrey leaves or roots and applying it directly to bruises, sprains, or other injuries to reduce swelling and promote healing.

   4. Comfrey Tincture: A concentrated extract of comfrey made by steeping comfrey leaves or roots in alcohol (such as vodka or brandy). This tincture can be used externally for bruises, strains, and joint pain.

   5. Comfrey Oil: Similar to a salve, comfrey oil is made by infusing comfrey leaves or roots in a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil. It can be used as a massage oil for sore muscles and joints.

   6. Comfrey Compost Activator: Comfrey leaves can be chopped and added to compost piles as an activator. They speed up decomposition and add valuable nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus to the compost.

   7. Comfrey Bath Soak: Adding dried comfrey leaves or comfrey tea to a warm bath can help soothe skin irritations, promote relaxation, and relieve muscle tension.

How to Make Comfrey Salve (using dried leaf)

1. Harvest Comfrey: Begin by harvesting fresh comfrey leaves from your garden. Make sure the leaves are healthy and free from any damage or disease.

2. Dry Comfrey Leaves: You can dehydrate leaves for future use. Wash the comfrey leaves thoroughly and allow them to dry completely. You can either air dry them by hanging them in a well-ventilated area or use a dehydrator for quicker results.

3. Infuse Comfrey in Oil: Once the leaves are dry, place them in a clean, dry glass jar and cover them with a carrier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. Ensure the leaves are fully submerged in the oil. Use about 2 ounces of dried leaves.

4. Heat the Oil: Create a makeshift double boiler by placing the jar in a pot of water. Heat the water gently, allowing the oil to infuse with the comfrey leaves over low heat for several hours. Do not let the oil boil.

5. Strain the Oil: After the infusion process, strain the oil using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove all plant material. Squeeze out as much oil as possible from the leaves.

6. Create the Salve Mixture: In a clean pot, melt beeswax over low heat. Once the beeswax is melted, add the infused comfrey oil and stir well to combine.

7. Test the Consistency: To check if the consistency is right, you can place a small amount of the mixture in the refrigerator to cool and solidify quickly.

8. Pour Into Containers: Once you achieve the desired consistency, pour the comfrey salve mixture into clean, dry containers such as tins or jars. Allow the salve to cool and solidify completely before sealing the containers.

9. Label and Store: Label your comfrey salve containers with the date and ingredients used. Store the salve in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.

10. Usage: Apply the comfrey salve to minor cuts, scrapes, bruises, or dry skin as needed. Remember to perform a patch test before widespread use to check for any skin sensitivities.

11. You can also add ingredients such as Vitamin E oil, Lavender essential oil, Shea butter, or Tea tree oil to make your salve more soothing, or in the case of tea tree oil add some anti-bacterial action. Add these ingredients to the beeswax while melting.

Comfrey Salve Using Fresh Leaves

Use about 5.5 ounces of fresh leaves

I typically just simmer the roots and/or leaves in a pot depending on what I want to make. Stir occassionally, for about one hour.

However, if you like specific temps, I read one study that used the temperature 192 F so just below boiling, and cooking time of 155 min and determined that was best to extract the good phytochemicals.

So I just cook and then strain into a mason jar. You can use the extract as the base in other comfrey recipes.

Make a Comfrey Poultice

1. Harvest flowers, leaves, and stems from your comfrey plant and chop them up. You can also use a blender with three tablespoons of olive oil. Puree.

2. You will need a binder - something to pull it together. You can use bentonite clay, arrowroot powder, cornstarch, or flour. Add 1/4 cup binder and blend again. Check consistency and add more binder, as needed. It should be the consistensy of muffin batter.

3. Spread the mixture on some gauze. You can use any size gauze depending on injury. Cover mixture with another piece of gauze so it doesnt run out.

4. Place the poultice on the injury for 20 minutes. You may need to wrap a towel around the poultice! Do this three times a day.

5. You can make a head and freeze the poultices for future use.

Resources:

Assessment of the diversity of comfrey (Symphytum officinale L. and S. × uplandicum Nyman) Ruzicka, J., Berger-Büter, K., Esslinger, N. et al.

Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution

Comfrey by T. M. Teynor, University of Minnesota

https://corn.agronomy.wisc.edu/Crops/Comfrey.aspx#:~:text=extensive%20hairs%20on%20comfrey%20leaves,are%20also%20fed%20this%20forage.

Comfrey (Symphytum spp.) as an alternative field crop contributing to closed agricultural cycles in chicken feeding. By Michael Oster et al. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969720340122

Author, Ame Vanorio, is the founder of Fox Run EEC.