The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Comfrey
The Power of Herbs: Herbs and Spices

ORIGINS

The term comfrey is used to describe various perennial herbs of the genus Symphytum. It comes from the Latin confervere, meaning “to boil together.” (The origin of the word fervent is also evident here—fervere meaning “to boil.”) The most common variety is Russian comfrey, which has pink or purple flowers. Comfrey grows well in most temperate regions, including North America, Europe, western Asia, and Australia.

HISTORY/LORE

The ancient Greek physician, pharmacologist, and botanist Pedanius Dioscorides (c. 40—90) included comfrey in his writings about herbal medicine. Legend has it that comfrey was one of the herbs growing in the Garden of Eden. In the New World, the settlers relied on comfrey to treat various illnesses and conditions. It was once believed that adding comfrey to bathwater could heal the hymen and restore a woman’s virginity.

USES

Healing Uses: Comfrey is excellent for treating wounds, particularly those that are dirty or have become infected (use a compress soaked with warm comfrey tea for this). Its ability to heal broken bones earned it the nickname “knitbone,” and it also assists with strains, sprains, and torn ligaments. As a poultice, it relieves bruises and soreness. This herb also assists with coughs and other lung-related issues.

Magical Uses: Comfrey is used in rituals to protect travelers; place it in your luggage to prevent your bags from being stolen. Wrap your money in a comfrey leaf for several days before any gambling endeavors to increase your chances of winning. Burn comfrey to let go of an unhealthy relationship. Use comfrey in healing and love spells, or include in love sachets.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Comfrey is a grounding herb that provides a sense of structure when things feel chaotic. It soothes emotional pain and provides comfort during difficult times. Use comfrey to enforce boundaries, both physical and spiritual. Add this herb to bathwater for spiritual cleansing.