

The aim of our work was to develop and validate a HPLC-MS/MS method for the quantitative determination of a major PA (lycopsamine) of Symphytum officinale and to carry out pharmacokinetic studies on the absorption of lycopsamine from a traditional Symphytum product through a synthetic membrane and human skin.

To date such absorption experiments were not carried out on human skin which would justify the maintenance of restriction related to the application. Due to the confirmed good absorption of PAs from the gastrointestinal tract the prohibition of oral use is rational, however the limitation of external application is not supported by relevant scientific data. In medicines, the daily alkaloid quantity and duration of treatment is limited even in case of topical application. The application of Symphiti radix is restricted in several countries due to its PA content.
Symphytum officinale skin safety Patch#
If you are trying a new product we suggest doing a small patch test.In the last three decades more than 350 different hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) have been identified in several plant species. For internal use always consult your physician or healthcare provider. Our ingredients descriptions are about TOPICAL (external) use ONLY.

This notice is required by the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Symphytum officinale skin safety professional#
Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you have medical concerns regarding yourself or your family you should seek the advice of qualified, licensed health professionals. Do not use the information found on this website to self-diagnose any medical conditions or treat any health problems or diseases. The information provided is not meant to substitute the advice provided by your personal physician or other medical professionals. Please Note: The content and information on this website regarding folklore or health-related benefits of certain ingredients is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended and should not be construed as medical advice to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. Comfrey tea, made from root or leaves, poured over hair as a rinse, makes hair soft as silk. In hair care, comfrey soothes and stimulates the scalp, and enriches lifeless hair. It has mild cleansing properties that make it a good product for removing dirt, oils, and impurities without irritating skin. Comfrey is also great for sensitive skin. Comfrey has mucilage, which is why it is used in skin and hair products for a softening effect.Ĭomfrey leaves or roots in a muslin tea bag added to the bath water can be used to soften skin. Traditionally in Europe, the root, considered nutritive, and cooling was used to help with sprains or strains, or broken bones.Ĭomfrey has gained popularity as a skin-healing herb and is used to heal rashes, inflammation, and other skin problems. The root: The comfrey root contributes more skin-soothing mucilage. Comfrey leaves and roots contain a chemical compound called allantoin which is believed to stimulate cell growth and repair while decreasing inflammation. Native to Europe, it grows in damp, grassy places like river banks and ditches.Īlthough comfrey is no longer recommended for internal use, it is often used in topical salves, ointments, and other skin care products. Comfrey, Symphytum officinale, is also known by other names like “knitbone” and “bruisewort.” It is a perennial herb with a dark, turnip-like root, thick, hairy stems, and flowers arranged in clusters of purple, blue or white.
