A herb that is loved by herbalists because of its many medicinal uses, comfrey is the way to go.
It is referred to as the healing herb
Comfrey (Symphytum Officinale) continued to be one of the most valuable and multipurpose herbs. My grandmother was never out of this herb. I think above all of the herbs, she revered this one the most because of its numerous qualities. It has a long history of use and is termed, the "Healing Herb."
The leaves are large and hairy, with pointed ends, with the back of the leaves being whitish or faded green in colour. The root is thick and spindle shaped, tapering towards the end.
The leaves are high in calcium, protein, allantoin, which assist in healing, and iron. It can be used to to replace spinach for cooking. Also, infuse in boiling water to extract the iron content for tea, or a cooling drink.
The medicinal use of this medicinal plant in Jamaica is wide spread and is being sold in markets, grocery stores and many rural folks grow their own plants for their own personal use. However, a neighbour or anyone who passes by and asked for a plant or some of the leaves will be obliged generously.
Comfrey was introduced in England from Russia
It was originally introduced in England, from Russia, and has been grown extensively throughout Europe, Canada, and the United States. It is also grown in the Caribbean and was once used as fodder in the goat rearing and rabbit rearing industry in Jamaica.
Benefits of comfrey
It is used to treat the following ailments: bronchial problems, broken bones, sprains, arthritis, gastric ulcers, varicose ulcers, severe burns, acne, female disorders, hemorrhage, asthma, tuberculosis, soreness of the kidneys, soreness of stomach, soreness of bowels, cancer, sinusitis, lowering blood pressure and it is a blood purifier.
A good herbal remedy to help with bedsores, stings, bruises, burns, dry skin, dermatitis, leg ulcers, rashes, and sunburn.
This herb is really the miracle herb and the best antidote for scores of diseases. I have personally heard many who testified of the miraculous wonders of this herb.
Other herbal benefits
The pioneers used to call it the "Healing Herb" and used it for hemorrhaging in the lungs, nostrils and internal organs, as well as for kidney problems, back pain and bladder infections. The tea applied to the skin will heal all irritations and rashes.
For bad bruises, swellings, sprains, fractures apply a fomentation of the hot tea. The result is that it will greatly reduce the swelling and ease the pain.
Comfrey has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anodyne, and astringent properties. It has the ability to heal bones and wounds quickly. Its ability to heal comes from the element allantoin which is a cell proliferant, which speeds up the body's natural healing process.
Comfrey poultice
Make a poultice of the fresh leaves and apply to ruptures, sore breast, wounds, ulcers, burns, bruises, insect bites and pimples. Also applied to boils, swellings, and sprains will heal and draw out impurities.