Comfrey

Description:

Perennial with large, thick,hairy leaves. Flowers are bell shaped. It is a member of the Borage family. One of the most common uses of Comfrey extract is as a skin treatment. The plant contains the small organic molecule allantoin, which is thought to stimulate cell growth and repair while simultaneously depressing inflammation. It should never be ingested, as it contains dangerous amounts of hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

Habitat:

Bog in a wildlife habitat garden.

Notes:

Comfrey should be harvested by using either shears, a sickle, or a scythe to cut the plant about 2 inches above the ground, taking care handling it because the leaves and stems are covered in hairs that can irritate the skin. It is advisable to wear gloves when handling comfrey.