Published July 27, 1990.
Name of Drug
Symphyti radix; comfrey root.
Composition of Drug
Comfrey, consisting of the fresh or dried root section of Symphytum officinale L. [Fam. Boraginaceae], and effective pharmaceutical preparations thereof.
The drug contains allantoin and muco-polysaccharides. Comfrey also contains various amounts of pyrrolizidine (senecio) alkaloids with 1,2-unsaturated necine ring structure and their N-oxides.
Uses
External:
- Bruising, pulled muscles and ligaments, sprains.
Contraindications
None known.
Note: Application should only occur on intact skin; during pregnancy use only after consulting a physician.
Side Effects
None known.
Interaction with Other Drugs
None known.
Dosage
Unless otherwise prescribed:
- Ointments or other preparations for external use are made up with 5 - 20 percent of the drug and prepared accordingly.
The daily dose should not exceed more than 100 µg (mcg) pyrrolizidine alkaloids with 1,2-unsaturated necine structure, including its N-oxides.
Mode of Administration
Crushed root, extracts, the pressed juice of the fresh plant for semi-solid preparations and poultices for external use.
Duration of Treatment
Not longer than 4 - 6 weeks per year.
Actions
Antiinflammatory
Furthers the formation of callus
Antimitotic.
* Source: German Commission E Monographs (Phytotherapy)
- base of phytotherapeutic drug approval by the german health administration -
