Comfrey Ice Pack

Comfrey Ice Pack

1 cup (240 ml)
2 teaspoon (10 ml) dried comfrey

Comfrey is a hardy perennial that's favored by herba; experts for its versatility in healing bites, burns, rashes, stings, and cuts, as well as the occasional muscle sprain. When pounded into a paste, comfrey hardens like a plaster, and according to history experts, ancient Greeks and Romans used it in battlefields to help set broken bones. Comfrey contains high levels of a chemical that can cause liver damage, so experts advise that is is for external use only. Bring water to a gentle boil. Steep the comfrey in the water for 10 minutes. Strain, then let it cool to room temperature, keeping it covered to retain the volatile oils. Transfer liquid to an ice-cube tray and freeze until ice cubes form. To use, wrap an ice cube in a piece of gauze or paper towel and place it directly on the bruised area for 15 to 20 minutes. (Do not place ice directly on the skin.)