Herbal Allies Series: COMFREY
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a powerful herb with deep roots in both traditional medicine and magickal practices. Known for its ability to promote healing, comfrey has been used for centuries to mend bones, soothe wounds, and aid in digestive health. Its magickal properties make it a valuable tool for protection, stability, and prosperity spells. That said, let’s explore the rich history of comfrey and its dual role in medicine and magick.
Medicinal Properties
Ancient societies used comfrey for broken bones, bronchial issues and to stop bleeding, making it an extremely versatile medicinal ally. Comfrey is part of the borage family, which is notorious for containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA’s). These compounds are hepatotoxic (toxic to the liver) and ingestion causes vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and can damage the liver in humans and pets (dogs especially). It should be avoided by pregnant and breast feeding women, those with liver and kidney conditions. Be sure to be mindful of pets and pet-friendly homes when recommending comfrey to clients. As always, PLEASE CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER BEFORE MAKING ANY CHANGES TO YOUR HEALTHCARE.
Astrological Properties
Like Capricorn (and Aquarius), this herb is governed by Saturn, lord of structure, boundaries and foundation. It is also a feminine water herb, giving it the ability to create fluidity in all paths traveled so long as clear desires are at work on the part of the practitioner. As the earthy structure of Capricorn is the focus here, don't forget the watery counter balance here that I like to link to Cancer - the axis of opposites at play. This cosmically polarized power couple holds potent prosperity energy, as Cancer is concerned with the well-being of home and hearth, with Capricorn supporting fortification of all resources: time management, money, networks and growth beyond current circumstances.
Magickal Uses
Comfrey’s name derives from the Latin word confere meaning “to grow together”. In this way, comfrey helps strengthen and mend relationships making it ideal for those going through rough patches in their relationships (romantic or otherwise). Because Saturn is the ruler of this herbal friend, we can expect its influences surrounding stability, planning and resource management to manifest as protective energy. Why? Think about it: in antiquity, travelers had to be mindful of their resources while journeying across unknown landscapes. They had to be aware of timing, robbers, and food/water. They also had to be discerning when it came to trusting other travelers and intel given by strangers (sound like any Capricorn you know, lol?).
How to Work with Comfrey
The best time to harvest comfrey is late spring to early summer, just before it begins to flower. The leaves hold the bulk of its medicinal value, and can be harvested roughly every 4 - 6 weeks. This herbal ally pairs nicely with astragalus for healing bones and regenerating flesh from broken bones as a poultice. Once there are no signs of broken skin, using this combination as a salve is allowed. Consider adding anti-inflammatory oils such as peppermint and lavender to aid with swelling, and avocado pits to reduce swelling and improve joint mobility. I always add a pinch of comfrey for personal workings if I am navigating a new season in life and in need of anchoring to my center in moments of uncertainty. Also, consider adding a dash of comfrey to any money mojo bags, candles and washes if you are looking to enhance money drawing properties as well as the retention of assets.
Sources
Comfrey: ancient and modern uses. March 18, 2021. https://pharmaceutical-journal/article/news/comfrey-ancient-and-modern-uses
Tierra M, Frawley D. Planetary Herbology : An Integration of Western Herbs into the Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic Systems. Motilal Banarsidass; 1999.
Harvesting comfrey - Comfrey UK. Comfrey.co.uk. Published 2021. Accessed February 13, 2025. https://comfrey.co.uk/harvesting-comfrey/
Cunningham S. Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs. Llewellyn Publications; 2013.
Bensky D, Clavey S, Stöger E. Chinese Herbal Medicine : Materia Medica. Eastland Press, Cop; 2004.
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