Dr. Morse often talks about Comfrey. It is also known by other names such as "knitbone" or "boneset," comfrey is native to Europe and Asia but has naturalized in North America due to its widespread cultivation and the dispersal of its seeds.
Where It Grows
Comfrey thrives in hardy conditions making it adaptable to various climates from Britain to central Asia and even parts of Western Siberia. It favors moist, rich soil but can grow in a range of conditions, including partial shade or full sun. Comfrey plants are often seen along riverbanks, in grasslands, and in gardens where they are valued for their deep taproots which mine nutrients from deep within the soil, bringing them to the surface for other plants to benefit from.
Harvesting Comfrey
Harvesting comfrey should be done with consideration to both the plant's health and your safety:
When to Harvest: The best time to harvest comfrey leaves is just before the plant blooms, typically from late spring to early summer, although you can get multiple harvests from established plants, usually in July and September. This is when the leaves are at their peak nutrient content. For medicinal purposes, avoid harvesting during the flowering stage as the plant's energy is focused on reproduction.
Tools Needed:
- Garden Shears or Pruning Snips: For a clean cut at the base of the leaves or flower stalks.
- Gloves: Comfrey leaves and stems have small, irritating hairs that can cause skin irritation.
- Knife: Useful for cutting through tougher stems or for root division.
Harvesting Method:
- Cut the leaves about 2 inches above the ground, being careful not to damage the crown of the plant where new growth originates. For root harvesting, which is done in early spring or late fall, a spade is necessary to dig deeply without breaking the roots.
- At first take a seasoned forager friend with you to help you understand what to look for, some plants look very similar to others. Donât just rely on apps and books.
Storing Comfrey:
- Drying: Spread the leaves in a single layer on a drying rack or screen, away from direct sunlight. The leaves are high in moisture, so ensure good air circulation to prevent mold. Once dry, they become brittle, signaling they are ready to be stored in airtight containers.
- Fresh Use: If using fresh, leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for short-term use. For longer preservation, consider making a comfrey tea or poultice.
Uses in Natural Health
Comfrey is prized for its healing properties due to compounds like allantoin, which promotes cell proliferation, aiding in wound healing and bone repair:
Topical Applications:
- Poultices: Fresh or dried leaves can be used to make healing poultices for sprains, bruises, and fractures. The mucilage content helps soothe and heal skin irritations which is your sign that your kidneys might not be filtering well.
- Salves and Ointments: Comfrey can be infused into oils, then combined with beeswax or similar, to create salves for external use on pains and inflammations which can be very useful during a healing crisis.
- Compost and Soil Amendment: Its leaves, rich in nutrients, are excellent for compost or directly as mulch, improving soil health and fertility.
Caution: Always make sure you know how to handle comfrey and its uses. Herbs are our friends, but we need to understand how to use them safely.
Comfrey's versatility in the garden and natural medicine cabinet makes it an invaluable plant, but like all herbs, it should be used with knowledge, respect and love. You should be able to find it near where you live. Have fun with it and enjoy what nature has provided. During a detox it can really help soothe your skin until your kidneys are filtering.