In this article, you will learn how to make comfrey ointment yourself. There are step-by-step instructions as well as tips on the effects and use of comfrey as a medicinal plant. We also explain how to harvest and dry comfrey roots.
Comfrey has been used as a medicinal plant since ancient times. It has an analgesic, wound-healing and anti-inflammatory effect and can be processed into ointments, gels or other comfrey extracts. The most common is comfrey ointment, which is made from the roots of the plant (rarely from the leaves). It is mainly used for sports injuries such as strains and bruises, but also for rheumatic pain. Comfrey ointment or comfrey compresses, which are made from cleaned, finely grated comfrey roots, have also proved effective for osteoarthritis, bursitis and bone fractures. For minor sprains, compresses with comfrey leaves can provide relief.
Our tip: If you want to grow your own comfrey for ointment, you can read here what you need to consider when sowing, caring for and harvesting comfrey.
Due to its poisonous ingredients, comfrey should only be used externally and not on open wounds. Its effective ingredients are numerous: allantoin, saponins, phythosterols, various mucilages and tannins, rosmarinic acid, resins and silicic acid provide rapid relief from various ailments. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can have a toxic effect on organs and tissues when used internally, are also typical of broadleaf plants.
The allantoin it contains promotes, among other things, the formation of new bone substance (callus) and thus the coalescence of bones. The scientific name Symphytum, as well as the German name "Wallwurz" (from Old German "wallen" = to grow together) refers to these properties. The most commonly used name comfrey is derived from the word "leg", which was formerly used for bones (bones). Comfrey can also help with skin problems such as dry skin, itching or minor wounds.
To harvest comfrey roots, you should first choose the right time. The ideal time is spring or fall, when the plant has its highest concentration of active ingredients. Only select healthy, strong comfrey plants that show no signs of disease or pest infestation for harvesting. And you're ready to go!
Use a garden fork or spade to carefully dig around the plant to expose the roots and loosen the soil. Be particularly careful not to damage any roots. The plant with the exposed roots is then carefully lifted out of the ground and the excess soil is shaken off.
Now cut off the roots close to the plant stem. If you want to replant the plant, you should leave enough root material so that it can regenerate. Remove small side roots and set aside the main roots. Then wash the roots thoroughly under running water to remove dirt and soil and remove all impurities.
If you want to dry the roots, you can spread them out on a clean cloth and dry them in a well-ventilated, shady place. This process can take several days to weeks, depending on the size and moisture content of the roots. Once the comfrey roots have been harvested, cleaned and possibly dried, they can be used to make remedies such as ointments, tinctures or compresses. Drying the root is particularly important if the roots are very moist. Then there is a risk that they will start to mold in the oil. So if you have enough time, we recommend drying the comfrey roots.
Comfrey ointment is very easy to make yourself and helps with sprains, bruises, muscle tension, joint pain and bruising.
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Which oil do I need for a comfrey ointment?
It is best to use coconut oil for the oil extract. Mix this extract with beeswax or a vegetable oil to obtain an ointment.
How does comfrey ointment work?
Comfrey has an analgesic, wound-healing and anti-inflammatory effect. However, ointments and tinctures should only be used externally for skin, muscle or bone problems, as comfrey contains toxic substances.
When is the best time to harvest comfrey root?
The best time for harvesting is either in spring or fall, as this is when the plant has the highest content of active ingredients. This gives you a particularly effective ointment!
Do you have to dry comfrey roots for an ointment?
Drying comfrey roots is an advantage and extends the shelf life of your ointment. Otherwise there is a risk that the remains of the root in the ointment will start to mold.