Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) organic seeds

Common comfrey is a truly remarkable native plant. It is an important European medicinal herb for the external treatment of muscle and bone problems such as bruises, strains and sprains. Dried roots as well as the leaves are primarily used in the preparation of herbal remedies. Particularly striking is its root system, which consists of numerous fleshy main roots up to 50 cm long and grows very vigorously. Individual roots can reach depths of up to 180 cm.

In Switzerland, the large comfrey leaves are also used in the kitchen, for wrapping food or fried in batter. They are rich in protein and nutritionally valuable. However, consumption should be moderate, as the plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which may affect the liver. Occasional consumption is generally regarded as safe.

The small bell-shaped flowers are an excellent source of nectar for bees. Bumblebees and other long-tongued insects in particular are among the many visitors during the flowering period.

Comfrey prefers moist, nutrient-rich locations such as damp roadsides, riverbanks and meadows. It is considered an indicator plant for nitrogen-rich soils and itself contains high levels of nitrogen and potassium in all parts. For this reason, the large leaves are ideal for mulching beds and for preparing liquid plant feeds to fertilise other plants.