Comfrey salve is a topical ointment made from the comfrey plant, which has been used for centuries to treat a variety of skin conditions. Comfrey is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia, and it has been naturalized in North America. The plant has large, hairy leaves and produces clusters of bell-shaped flowers that are typically blue or purple. Comfrey salve is made by infusing the leaves of the comfrey plant in oil, and then straining the mixture to remove the plant material. The resulting salve can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including wounds, burns, bruises, and rashes.
Comfrey salve is thought to work by promoting cell growth and reducing inflammation. The allantoin in comfrey helps to stimulate the growth of new skin cells, while the rosmarinic acid helps to reduce inflammation. Comfrey salve has also been shown to be effective in treating pain. One study found that comfrey salve was effective in reducing pain in patients with osteoarthritis.
