Sunday, October 25, 2009

Bit-O-Herbs: Comfrey


Just about everything I have read about Comfrey says that it's a "miracle" plant. The lists of benefits and uses is outstanding. From it's ability to carry essential vitamins and minerals, act as an anti-inflammatory, and aid in the growth of other plants, Comfrey lives up to its claims.

Comfrey contains calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, C, and B12. It may serve as a nice addition to your diet. Chop the young leaves for your green salads, or cook like a spinach with garlic and olive oil.

It may be added to cosmetic products to ease inflammation of the skin; eczema, arthritis, burns, sprains and fractures can be aided with a fresh compress (poultice).

The extremely long taproot draws vital nutrients to the top of the soil, and permaculturists will use it to enrich poor soils when gardening. Be careful when placing it in your garden, however, as you will have a difficult time removing it. Not only does Comfrey benefit the garden when it is alive, but using withering leaves in compost will make a great fertilizer.

Other uses include teas, ground cover, dying cloth (gives and olive green color) and fodder. Miracle plant to the rescue!

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