Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) has been traditionally used for wound healing, including abrasions, due to its purported anti-inflammatory and cell-proliferative properties. Modern scientific research provides some validation for its topical use in minor wounds and abrasions. Several clinical trials and preclinical studies have examined topical comfrey preparations (typically ointments or creams) for their efficacy in supporting the healing of minor injuries, abrasions, and bruises. The primary active compounds in comfrey are allantoin and rosmarinic acid, which are believed to promote cell proliferation, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue regeneration.

A systematic review published in 2013 (Staiger, 2013) summarized clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of topical comfrey extracts in the treatment of abrasions and other minor injuries, finding generally positive results regarding pain reduction, improved healing time, and good tolerability. However, it is important to note that comfrey contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which are hepatotoxic and potentially carcinogenic when taken internally or used on open wounds for prolonged periods. Most commercial topical comfrey products are now made from PA-depleted extracts, and use is generally considered safe for short-term, external application on minor, closed abrasions.

Overall, while there is scientific support for comfrey’s topical use in treating minor abrasions, caution is warranted due to the risk of PA toxicity, and it should not be applied to deep or infected wounds or used over large skin areas.