Botanical name: Symphytum officinale

Common names: slippery root, knitbone, blackwort, bruisewort, healing herb

Warning: for external use only

Comfrey became known as the "guardian of travelers" because the root used to be carried for protection while away from home. It is sometimes used on the skin to treat wounds and reduce inflammation from sprains and broken bones. Comfrey roots and leaves contain allantoin, a substance that helps new skin cells grow, along with other substances that reduce inflammation and keep skin healthy. Comfrey ointments have been used to heal bruises as well as pulled muscles and ligaments, fractures, sprains, strains, and osteoarthritis.

It is often used to produce infused oils, creams and other topical products.