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Comfrey Lvs Organic |
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Comfrey Lvs Organic
COMFREY LEAVES - Organic
Symphytum officinalis
History and Folklore
Many fantastic stories are told about this incredible herb, and its common names, bone-knit, boneset, bruisewort, knit bone and the like attest to its healing power. Comfrey, a member of the Borage family, has long been a standard first aid remedy in any herbal medicine chest. Yet, recent research by the Henry Doubleday Foundation that studied the viability of Comfrey as a food crop, has brought Comfrey into the crossfire. It was found that Comfrey (though it is unclear which species of Comfrey was tested) contains certain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which, it appears, caused rats that had been fed on a diet of Comfrey for 6 months to develop liver cancer. Alarm bells went off everywhere cautioning people to avoid Comfrey and labelling it a dangerous herb. While pyrrolizidine alkaloids do cause cancer of the liver, it should be mentioned that the quantities contained in a normal dose of Comfrey are extremely small. Most herbalists agree that unless vast quantities were consumed on a daily basis it is unlikely that Comfrey would cause any serious damage at all. After all, Comfrey has been used for generations, both internally and externally, without apparent ill effects and many Comfrey fans continue to swear by it, despite the bad press. However, such matters are nowadays in the hands of regulators who don't really know anything about herbs. Still, to be on the cautious side, use the leaves for internal use and roots externally and don't overdo it - as Paracelsus said: Everything is poison; it's the dose that makes the medicine.
Medicinal Uses:
Comfrey leaves can be used as a poultice for all manner of bruises, sprains or other damage to the connective tissues, including broken bones and badly healing ulcers and sores as well as for inflammatory swellings. Comfrey leaves are still considered safe for internal use and can be employed to treat stomach ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome and piles, as well as for bronchial afflictions. Comfrey leaves can also be used to treat problems of the mouth: sore, inflamed or bleeding gums and sore throat or hoarseness.
CAUTION
Large doses of Comfrey over an extended period of time is not recommended.
Magical Uses:
In Medieval times Comfrey was used in sympathetic magic for healing bones. In modern magical herbalism it is recommended for safe travels and also to safeguard one's luggage.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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