Comfrey is among the oldest herbal remedies for skin problems, dating back to ancient Greece and has a long history of treating sores and wounds. Modern researchers have discovered that it contains allatonin, a chemical that promotes skin repair and new cell growth. Allatonin is an ingredient in a number of commercial skin creams. In addition, Comfrey is an anti-inflammatory that stimulates the immune system The astringent tannins in the plant may also help.

It may be applied to the skin to treat bruises, dislocations and sprains. Quick action with a bandage soaked in comfrey can prevent some discolouration. Comfrey is excellent for treating sores and wounds, especially indolent ulcers (slow healing sores) and surgical incisions.

Comfrey may also be used as an external treatment for Carpel Tunnel Syndrome and Arthritis, helping to relieve pain, swelling and inflammation due to the active compounds allatonin and rosmarinic acid.

Allatonin also has anti-dandruff properties - add a couple of drops of the tincture to your usual shampoo.

Other uses for comfrey include haemorrhoids, heartburn and vaginitis.

Comfrey has had bad press in recent years because it contains carcinogenic comounds called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA's) which may cause liver damage when the herb is ingested in sufficient amounts. Herbalists believe that although it shouldn't be ingested regularly or in any great quantity, a little every so often is fine. One expert, Dr Ames, has found that one cup of comfrey is less carginogenic than a can of beer. There is no evidence that it is risky when applied to the skin, and many praise its powers when used externally for speeding the healing of sores and cuts.

100ml 1:3 Alcohol Volume 45%. Take 10 - 15 drops 2 x daily.