Comfrey: What It Is and How to Use It
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a leafy perennial nicknamed "knitbone," a nod to its centuries-long folk history as an herb for sprains, bruises, and sore joints. It is one of the classic herbs of the home apothecary — but today, herbal references recommend it for external use only. You'll find dried comfrey leaf in the bulk herb section at William's Natural Foods, 12249 San Pablo Ave, Richmond, CA 94805.
Available in Bulk
We carry comfrey leaf in our bulk herb section so you can grab exactly the amount you want, from a spoonful to a full bag. Scoop what you need into your own bag or container, and our staff can help you find it in the bins or answer your questions about working with dried herbs.
What We Carry
Look for comfrey as a dried, cut-and-sifted leaf in our bulk section, ready for infusions, compresses, and homemade oil or salve projects. The dried leaf has a mild, grass-like scent. We stock the leaf only — and please note, comfrey is recommended for external use only, as it contains naturally occurring pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is comfrey traditionally used for?
Comfrey has traditionally been used externally — as poultices, compresses, and infused oils — for minor sprains, bruises, and everyday skin scrapes. Its folk name "knitbone" reflects its old reputation as a healing herb for bumps and knocks. These are traditional uses, not proven medical effects.
Can I take comfrey internally?
No — comfrey is recommended for external use only. The plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, compounds that may cause serious liver damage if swallowed. In its enforcement actions, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission has required topical comfrey products to carry a warning stating, in part: "External Use Only. Consuming this product can cause serious liver damage." Avoid use on broken skin as well.
How do people use comfrey externally?
The dried leaf is commonly steeped into an herbal oil or a warm compress, and many DIY herbalists add comfrey-infused oil to homemade salves, lotions, and soaps. A simple approach is soaking the dried leaf in warm water to make a compress for tired muscles and minor bumps.
What does bulk comfrey leaf look like?
Dried comfrey leaf in our bulk bins is a medium-green, crumbly cut leaf with a faintly grassy, mild aroma. Because the leaf is cut and sifted, it measures and steeps easily for compresses and oil infusions.
Visit Us
You'll find dried comfrey leaf in the bulk herb section at William's Natural Foods, 12249 San Pablo Ave, Richmond — open Mon–Fri 9 AM–7 PM, Sat 9 AM–6 PM, Sun 10 AM–5 PM. Our staff are happy to help you find it or talk through your options.
This guide is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or a qualified health professional about any health questions.