Two powerful ways to use this plant—one for you, one for your garden. Some plants earn their keep quietly. Comfrey is one of those.
With its big leafy growth, fuzzy texture, and purple bell-shaped blooms, comfrey isn’t a showstopper—but it’s one of the most useful plants in my garden. I planted it once and have been using it in different ways ever since.
Here are two of my favorite ways to use it: one for your skin, and one for your soil.
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What Is Comfrey, Anyway?
Comfrey (Symphytum x uplandicum) is a deep-rooted perennial herb that pulls nutrients up from below the soil surface. It’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine to help support healing from the outside in—hence its nickname, “knitbone.”
It’s fast-growing, easy to chop and regrow, and plays well in permaculture systems and cottage gardens alike.
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Comfrey Healing Salve (For Skin)
Comfrey contains allantoin, a compound believed to support cell regeneration and reduce inflammation. It’s commonly used in herbal salves to support healing from scrapes, bruises, sprains, and dry or cracked skin.
Here’s how I make mine:
Simple Comfrey Salve Recipe
You’ll need:
• 1 cup fresh comfrey leaves (or ½ cup dried)
• 1 cup olive oil (or coconut oil)
• 1 oz beeswax pellets
• Optional: a few drops of lavender essential oil
To make the infused oil:
1. Roughly chop the comfrey leaves.
2. Heat gently in a double boiler or slow cooker with the oil for 2–3 hours (or let it infuse in a sunny window for 1–2 weeks).
3. Strain out the leaves and save the oil.
To turn into salve:
1. Warm the infused oil and stir in beeswax until melted.
2. Add essential oil if using.
3. Pour into clean tins or jars and let cool.
Keep it on hand for minor bumps, bruises, dry heels, and tired hands after a day in the garden.
⚠️ Note: Comfrey should not be used on deep or open wounds. Always do your own research if pregnant or nursing.
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Comfrey Tea (For Plants!)
Comfrey leaves are full of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus—making them an ideal natural fertilizer.
This stuff is gold for tomatoes, squash, and flowering plants.
Simple Comfrey Fertilizer Tea
You’ll need:
• A 5-gallon bucket
• A generous bunch of comfrey leaves
• Water
• A lid (trust me)
To make:
1. Fill your bucket about halfway with chopped comfrey leaves.
2. Add water to the top and cover with a loose-fitting lid.
3. Let it steep for 2–4 weeks. Stir it every few days.
4. Strain it (if you’re fancy) or dip out what you need.
To use:
Dilute the tea about 1:10 with water and pour around the base of plants.
It will smell awful—but your plants will love it.
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Why I Keep It
I’ve got a single comfrey plant that just keeps giving. I harvest leaves, make salves, boost my compost, and feed the garden—all from one patch.
If you’re looking for a plant that actually earns its place, comfrey is it.
Let it grow. Then let it work for you.