| Term | Comfrey |
| Category | Herbs |
| Definition | Comfrey is a traditional medicinal plant primarily used externally for bruises, strains, and to support stressed joints. It is not suitable for internal feeding in horses. |
| Effects & Benefits | Comfrey contains, among other things, allantoin as well as tannins and mucilages. Traditionally, it is used externally to support regeneration in cases of blunt injuries, swelling, and a stressed musculoskeletal system. |
| Application | In horses, comfrey should only be used externally, for example as an ingredient in suitable ointments, gels, or compresses. It should not be mixed into feed on its own or fed as a tea. |
| Fresh or dried? | Neither fresh nor dried comfrey is recommended for internal use. The problematic ingredients remain fundamentally relevant even after processing. |
| Important to know | Comfrey contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids. These can damage the liver if ingested. Therefore, comfrey should not be used as a fodder herb for horses. External products should not be applied to deep or severely open wounds unless specifically intended for that purpose. |
| Related terms | Musculoskeletal system · Bruise · Strain · Liver · Pyrrolizidine alkaloids |
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