Comfrey Root

Comfrey Root molecular structure

0-6 month old newbornsSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this safe for 0-6 month old newborns to use Comfrey Root?

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NO - AVOID
Danger Score: 10 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Comfrey Root avoid - not safe for 0-6 month old babies when used in topical products. Always consult your pediatrician for newborns.

ℹ️General Overview

For newborns and babies up to 6 months, comfrey root is not safe. The plant can contain chemicals that harm the liver, and a baby’s skin can absorb those chemicals more easily than adult skin.

What to Do

Do not use creams, ointments, oils, or herbal products that list comfrey root, Symphytum officinale, or Symphytum officinale root on babies under 6 months. If a product with comfrey was applied to your baby, wash the area with mild soap and water and call your pediatrician for advice. Keep any herbal or natural products out of reach and check ingredient lists on new products before using them on an infant.

⚠️Warnings

Warnings come from health authorities and medical reports showing comfrey-linked liver injury. Do not let babies ingest teas or herbal preparations containing comfrey. Avoid applying comfrey to broken or irritated skin, and avoid long-term or repeated use. Watch for signs of liver problems (yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, vomiting, very sleepy or hard-to-wake baby) and seek medical care right away if you see these. Also be aware that contamination with pyrrolizidine alkaloids is a known concern with comfrey.

Confidence: HIGH

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Cancer: Animal and laboratory studies show comfrey (and extracts) can cause tumors and mutations, and a U.S. federal health agency has advised removing comfrey products because of possible cancer risk. This evidence means comfrey root is linked to cancer in long-term tests.
Organ Risk: There are multiple human case reports of serious liver damage (hepatic veno-occlusive disease) after using comfrey, and health authorities list comfrey as a known human liver toxicant. That makes liver harm a real risk if this root is used.
Absorbed: The ingredient can be absorbed through skin and the product notes enhanced skin absorption. Because toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids are present, topically applying comfrey can let harmful compounds into the body.
Long-Term Risk: Studies show tumor formation at low doses and cases of liver disease after exposure, and health authorities have warned about removal from the market—together this points to risks that can appear after repeated or long-term use.
Banned: A U.S. federal health authority has advised manufacturers to remove comfrey products from the market, and some product-approval programs restrict its use—meaning it is banned or heavily restricted in some places.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Comfrey Root

This ingredient may also be listed as:

comfrey rootSYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE (COMFREY) ROOTCOMFREY ROOTSYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE ROOT

Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.

Products Containing Comfrey Root

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain Comfrey Root or its alternative names.

Common Questions About Comfrey Root

Is this ingredient safe for newborns to use Comfrey Root?

Comfrey Root is not recommended for 0-6 month old babies due to potential safety risks.

What are the cancer risks of Comfrey Root for newborns?

Connected to cancer risk with long-term or repeated exposure. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the organ risk risks of Comfrey Root for newborns?

May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the absorbed risks of Comfrey Root for newborns?

Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the long-term risk risks of Comfrey Root for newborns?

Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the banned risks of Comfrey Root for newborns?

Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What products contain Comfrey Root?

Comfrey Root is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.

When can infants start using products with Comfrey Root?

The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for 0-6 month old babies. Use the age selector above to check other ages.

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