Comfrey Root

Comfrey Root molecular structure

2-5 year old preschoolersSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Safe for preschoolers to use Comfrey Root?

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NOT RECOMMENDED
Danger Score: 6 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Comfrey Root not recommended for 2-5 year old children when used in topical products. Consider preschooler activity levels.

ℹ️General Overview

For toddlers and preschoolers (ages 2-5), comfrey root is not a safe routine skin ingredient. It can carry plant toxins that may get into the body through the skin and harm the liver. Some studies also link it to cancer risk in animals.

What to Do

Do not use products with comfrey root on children aged 2-5 unless a pediatrician specifically tells you to. Never put it on cuts, sores, or irritated skin. If a product was applied, wash the area and call your child’s doctor if you see rash, itching, stomach pain, extreme tiredness, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Keep any comfrey-containing products locked away or out of reach.

⚠️Warnings

Main warnings come from government safety advisories and published studies showing liver damage and tumor formation in animals, and the presence of harmful plant chemicals called pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Because of these documented risks, avoid topical use on young children and watch for signs of liver trouble (jaundice, abdominal pain, persistent tiredness).

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

Safe for preschoolers to use Comfrey Root?

Comfrey Root is not recommended for 2-5 year old children due to potential safety risks.

What are the cancer risks of Comfrey Root for preschoolers?

Connected to cancer risk with long-term or repeated exposure. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

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

May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

What are the absorbed risks of Comfrey Root for preschoolers?

Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

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

Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

What are the banned risks of Comfrey Root for preschoolers?

Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

What products contain Comfrey Root?

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

Is this suitable for preschoolers to using products with Comfrey Root?

The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for 2-5 year old children. Use the age selector above to check other ages.

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