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The external use of comfrey: a practitioner survey
Rachael Frost1, Susan O'Meara1, Hugh MacPherson1
1Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK.
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
|August 13, 2014
Summary
Herbal practitioners frequently use comfrey (Symphytum officinale L.) externally, particularly for musculoskeletal issues and fractures. Their experience indicates safe and effective application for specific external conditions.
Area of Science:
- Herbal Medicine
- Phytotherapy
- Ethnobotany
Background:
- Comfrey (Symphytum officinale L.) is a plant with a long history of traditional use.
- Understanding current clinical applications by herbal practitioners is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the frequency and methods of external comfrey use by herbal practitioners.
- To identify conditions for which comfrey is perceived as most effective and safest.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to 598 UK-based members of professional herbalist organizations.
- Response rate was 40% (239 practitioners).
Main Results:
- 179 (75%) of respondents regularly use comfrey in 15% of consultations.
- Most common application: cream for tendon, ligament, muscle injuries, fractures, and wounds.
- Rated least effective for hemorrhoids, varicose veins, boils; highest risk noted for ulcers, wounds, boils.
Conclusions:
- Practitioner data suggests comfrey can be safely and effectively used externally for specific indications.
- Further research may validate these clinical observations.
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