: any of a genus (Symphytum) of perennial herbs of the borage family with coarse hairy entire leaves and flowers in one-sided racemes
2
: an herbal preparation of the leaves or roots of comfrey that is toxic if taken internally
Illustration of comfrey
comfrey 1
Examples of comfrey in a Sentence
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Like daikons and comfrey, milk thistle’s long, penetrating roots draw nutrients up from deep in the soil and aerate dense garden beds.—Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 June 2025 But late summer is a time when many herbaceous plants in the garden are chopped and dropped, including the comfrey, for the last time this year.—Elizabeth Waddington, Treehugger, 15 Aug. 2023 The Spa Those that prefer not to be in the water all day will enjoy the Bamford Wellness Spa, which in this location incorporates native Hawaiian medicinal plants such as comfrey and noni into some of its treatment rituals, facials, and massages.—Melinda Fulmer, Robb Report, 30 June 2023 Specifically formulated for dog's paws, this balm is made with natural and organic ingredients like calendula and comfrey to soothe and protect your dog's paw pads.—Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 21 May 2023 Vanilla fruit, ginger lily, and mandarin extracts work to reduce inflammation and brighten up your complexion, while allantoin — an extract from the comfrey plant — helps treat and prevent dry skin for a soft, supple complexion.—Nicol Natale, Peoplemag, 2 Apr. 2023 There’s comfrey and marigold oil to make the skin heal faster.—Amy MacKelden, Harper's BAZAAR, 14 Sep. 2022 This is a variegated comfrey with outstanding yellow and green foliage.—Janet Carson, Arkansas Online, 18 June 2022 Today, medical professionals and government agencies warn against consuming comfrey because of potential liver damage.—The Salt Lake Tribune, 13 Dec. 2021
Word History
Etymology
Middle English cumfirie, from Anglo-French cunfirie, from Latin conferva a water plant, from confervēre to grow together (of bones), from com- + fervēre to boil — more at barm
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