Herb Classes
One herb. One class. One hour. Each herb sheet gives you everything you need to understand, prepare, and use that herb with confidence. Tap any herb to expand its full reference sheet. New herbs are added as each class is taught.
Comfrey Root Symphytum officinale L.
Modern safety research has identified significant concerns with internal use of comfrey root. The information in this sheet includes traditional historical uses for educational purposes. Current best practice emphasizes external application only. See full safety section below before any use.
Comfrey root has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries, earning the name "Knit-Bone" for its renowned ability to support healing of wounds, fractures, and tissue damage. Historical practitioners considered it one of the most valuable healing agents available.
The shift in usage: In the past, comfrey root was commonly used both internally (as decoctions) and externally. Modern research identified pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the root which raised safety concerns about internal use, particularly regarding liver health. As a result, current herbal practice has shifted primarily toward external applications, while internal use is considered historical/traditional.
What this sheet teaches: You will learn both the traditional internal preparations (for historical understanding and formula literacy) and the current external applications. All internal uses are presented as traditional practice, not current recommendation.
Demulcent (Primary): Soothes, protects, and promotes healing of inflamed tissues and mucous membranes. This is comfrey's most famous action — the mucilage coats and protects while allantoin promotes cell proliferation and tissue repair.
Pectoral: Traditionally valued for chest and lung conditions — soothing to inflamed respiratory passages.
Astringent: Tones and tightens tissues, reduces excessive secretions and bleeding.
The following represents traditional historical use, not current medical recommendation.
Respiratory conditions (internal - historical): Inflamed lung conditions · Hemorrhage from the lungs · Cough with excessive expectoration · Asthma · Tuberculosis · Chest complaints
Digestive system (internal - historical): Stomach soreness · Bowel inflammation · Ulceration of the stomach · Ulceration of the kidneys · Diarrhea · Dysentery
Urinary system (internal - historical): Kidney conditions where tissue is ulcerated or inflamed · Gravel (kidney stones) causing cutting pain · Blood in urine
External applications (current practice): Bruises · Sprains · Swellings · Fractures · Wounds · Burns · Skin irritation · Muscle and joint pain · Inflammation
Historical perspective: Traditional practitioners spoke in glowing terms about comfrey root's effectiveness for lung hemorrhage, ulcerated conditions throughout the body, and its soothing effect on inflamed tissues. It was considered extremely difficult to name a more useful and effective agent for these conditions. The instruction was to "use it freely" where sharp kidney stones were causing bloody urine or where tissue damage required repair.
Comfrey is a stout, bristle-haired perennial plant growing 60-120 cm (2-4 feet) tall from a thick, brownish-black, mucilaginous rootstock.
Above ground: Leaves and stem are erect and covered with bristly hairs. Lower leaves can reach 25 cm (11") long — petiolate (on stems), lanceolate (lance-shaped), hairy beneath. Upper leaves are narrower. Flowers are purple, pink, or whitish, growing in crowded terminal cymes (clusters). Flowers appear in early summer. Taste is somewhat sweet and slightly astringent.
Root (the medicinal part for this herb): Thick, fleshy, brownish-black exterior. Interior is white and extremely mucilaginous (slimy when fresh). The mucilage is immediately apparent when you handle a fresh root.
Where it grows: Native to Europe and Asia, introduced and naturalized widely elsewhere. Thrives in rich, wet soils near rivers, streams, ditches, and low-lying meadowland. Can tolerate elevations up to 1500 m (4800 feet).
Cultivation: Prefers moist to wet soil in sun or partial shade. Propagate by seed sown in spring or by division. Once established, comfrey is deep-rooted and extremely difficult to eradicate. Be sure leaves and stalks are completely wilted before composting or they will regenerate new plants.
Harvest: Roots are lifted during Fall and Winter when the plant is dormant, then dried for storage.
Allantoin (0.6-0.8%): This compound promotes cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. It is responsible for much of comfrey's wound-healing reputation.
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (0.02-0.07%): Including interonedine, acetylintermedine, lycopsamine, acetylycopsamine, symphytine, and echimidine (in some sources). Present as N-oxides. These are the compounds of safety concern. Important: The root contains significantly higher concentrations than the leaf.
Mucilage: Abundant mucilaginous compounds including fructans. Provides the soothing, coating, demulcent action.
Tannins: Calculated 4-6%. Provide astringent properties.
Phenolic acids: Depsides of dehydrocaffeic acid, caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid.
Other compounds: Triterpenes (isobornol) · Sterols (sitosterol) · Asparagine (1-3%) · Amino acids · Very high protein content (up to 35%)
Historical context: Traditional preparation of comfrey root for internal use involved decoction — sustained boiling or simmering. This is significant because research has shown that boiling/simmering destroys pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Traditional herbalists may have unknowingly reduced the alkaloid content through their preparation method.
Decoction (historical internal method): Comfrey root was placed in cold water, brought to a boil, and simmered for 20-30 minutes. The sustained heat breaks down tough root tissue, extracts the mucilage and other compounds, and destroys pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
External preparations (current practice): Poultice · Fomentation (compress soaked in decoction) · Salve/ointment · Oil infusion
Traditional Preserving Formula
Herbs & Amounts:
*Spikenard - not included in the 20-herb foundation course. Covered in advanced herbal studies.
Traditional Preparation:
- Boil both herbs in 2.38 L (5 pints) of water for 30 minutes
- Strain the liquid, then boil it down to 714 ml (1½ pints)
- Add 908 grams (two pounds) of sugar while the liquid is hot
- Allow to cool
- While the syrup is still warm but not hot, add 28 ml (one ounce) of alcohol to preserve it for extended storage
Historical dose: 7.5 ml (1.5 teaspoons) three or four times a day.
Traditional Lung Tonic Formula
Herbs & Amounts (each 14 grams / ½ ounce):
*Horehound is included in the 20-herb foundation course; will be taught in Session 5. Ground Ivy, Elecampane, and Ginger are not included; covered in advanced herbal studies.
Traditional Preparation:
- Simmer all herbs in 1.4 L (3 pints) of water for twenty minutes
- Add two powdered nutmegs (about two level teaspoonfuls)
- Cover and simmer about four minutes longer
- Strain and add to the hot liquid 681 grams (1½ pounds) of raw cane sugar
- Bottle when cold
Historical dose: 30-45 ml (one or two tablespoons) every two hours.
Traditional Nervine Cough Syrup
Herbs:
*Turkey Rhubarb and Elecampane - not included in the 20-herb foundation course. Horehound is included; will be taught in Session 5.
Traditional note: Where a nervine cough syrup is required, this combination was considered very good. Specific preparation and dosing would follow similar syrup-making methods as above.
External application of comfrey root remains a valued practice in modern herbalism. The demulcent and vulnerary (wound-healing) properties work effectively when applied to intact skin.
Poultice Application
- If using dried root: Simmer in water to create a thick decoction, or powder the root and mix with water to form a paste
- If using fresh root: Grate or mash the fresh root to release the mucilage
- Apply directly to the affected area in a thick layer
- Cover with clean cloth
- Can be covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying
- Leave in place 1-4 hours
- Reapply 2-4 times daily for acute injuries
Traditional poultice uses: Sprains · Strains · Bruises · Swellings · Fractures (applied around the area, not over open wounds) · Muscle pain · Joint inflammation
Fomentation (Compress)
- Make a strong decoction by simmering comfrey root in water for 20-30 minutes
- Strain the liquid
- Soak a clean cloth in the hot (but not burning) liquid
- Apply the cloth to the affected area
- Cover to maintain warmth
- Replace cloth as it cools
- Continue for 20-30 minutes
Salve or Ointment
Comfrey root can be infused in oil, then the oil can be thickened with beeswax to create a salve for easy application. Commercial comfrey salves are widely available and follow safety concentration guidelines.
Absolute Contraindications
1. LIVER DISEASE - COMPLETELY CONTRAINDICATED
Do not use comfrey root in any form if you have any liver condition, liver disease, or compromised liver function. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids are hepatotoxic (toxic to the liver).
2. PREGNANCY - DO NOT USE INTERNALLY
Do not use comfrey root internally during pregnancy under any circumstances.
3. OPEN WOUNDS - NEVER APPLY TO BROKEN SKIN
Only apply comfrey root preparations to intact skin (skin that is not broken, cut, or wounded). It is possible to trap infections inside open wounds when using demulcent herbs that coat and seal the surface. The herb should form a protective layer over intact skin only.
Duration Limits
4. LIMITED DURATION OF USE
No side effects have been noted when comfrey root is applied externally for limited time. However, duration of use should be limited: No longer than 4-6 weeks total in a calendar year. This is a cumulative limit — if you use it for 2 weeks in spring and 2 weeks in fall, you've reached 4 weeks for the year.
External Application Guidelines
Careful Application - Concentration Limits:
Unless otherwise stated by a qualified professional, ointments or other preparations for external use should contain 5-20% of comfrey root (with preparations adjusted correspondingly to the concentration).
Daily dose limit: The total amount applied in a day must not contain more than 100 micrograms of pyrrolizidine alkaloids with a 1,2-unsaturated necine residue, including their N-oxides.
This is why commercial preparations and professional formulations are recommended for external use — they follow these concentration guidelines.
Understanding the Pyrrolizidine Alkaloid Concern
What research has shown:
Long-term studies in laboratory animals have demonstrated that the isolated pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in comfrey root are:
- Hepatotoxic - toxic to liver cells
- Carcinogenic - capable of causing cancer
- Mutagenic - capable of causing genetic mutations
Specifically, acetylintermedine and acetylycopsamine have been proven mutagenic in laboratory cell studies. The substance must therefore be recognized as a potentially genotoxic carcinogen in humans.
However, the genetic risk from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids appears to be of minor importance when weighed against their toxic potential. In other words: the liver toxicity is the primary concern, genetic/cancer risk is secondary but still present.
Important Contextual Information
The role of preparation method:
It should be noted that boiling (as in traditional decoctions) destroys pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Traditional internal use involved sustained boiling/simmering, which would have significantly reduced or eliminated the alkaloid content. This may explain why historical use did not result in widespread reports of liver toxicity.
Root vs. Leaf:
Comfrey leaves contain a much smaller concentration of pyrrolizidine alkaloids than the root. The leaf (taught in Session 2) has a different safety profile and is considered safer for limited internal use in some herbal traditions.
Current Recommendations
In the past, roots were used internally. Now, due to the controversy and research findings regarding pyrrolizidine alkaloids, modern herbalists primarily use comfrey root externally only.
This course teaches both traditional practice (for historical understanding) and current best practices (for safe application). You are responsible for making informed decisions about use.
✓ External use only (current best practice)
✓ Apply only to intact skin — never to open wounds
✓ No longer than 4-6 weeks cumulative per year
✓ Use preparations with 5-20% concentration maximum
✓ Daily application must not exceed 100 micrograms pyrrolizidine alkaloids
✓ Contraindicated completely if you have any liver condition
✓ Do not use internally during pregnancy
✓ Commercial preparations following safety guidelines are recommended
Dried root: Store in airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. Shelf life: 2-3 years. Should retain a slightly sweet smell and not become moldy or develop off odors.
Fresh root: Can be kept refrigerated for several weeks. The mucilaginous quality is most apparent when fresh.
Prepared salves/ointments: Store in cool place. Shelf life depends on the oil base and preservatives used — typically 1-2 years.
Decoctions: Use same day. Can be refrigerated covered for 24-48 hours maximum.
✓ "Knit-Bone" — traditional name reflects its wound and bone-healing reputation
✓ Current practice: External use only — applied to intact skin for sprains, bruises, inflammation
✓ Historical practice: Internal via decoction — boiling destroys pyrrolizidine alkaloids
✓ Root vs. Leaf: Root contains much higher alkaloid concentration; leaf is safer for internal use
✓ NEVER apply to open wounds — can trap infections; intact skin only
✓ Duration limit: 4-6 weeks per year maximum — cumulative across all uses
✓ Contraindicated in liver disease — pyrrolizidine alkaloids are hepatotoxic
✓ Do not use internally during pregnancy
✓ Concentration limits for external use: 5-20% maximum; daily dose under 100 micrograms alkaloids
✓ Allantoin promotes cell growth — this is why it heals wounds and regenerates tissue
✓ Extremely mucilaginous — the thick, slimy coating soothes and protects inflamed areas
✓ Commercial preparations recommended — follow safety concentration guidelines
Sage Salvia officinalis L.
Diaphoretic (Primary): Promotes perspiration and sweating. When taken as a hot infusion, sage opens the pores quite freely and produces vigorous perspiration. This makes it valuable during fevers and when the body needs to release heat through the skin.
Nervine: Calms and soothes the nervous system. Sage is particularly valued for quieting nervous excitement in the brain, settling nervous troubles, and easing the delirium that can accompany fevers.
Astringent: Tightens and tones tissues. This property makes sage effective as a gargle for sore throat and inflamed mucous membranes.
Tonic: Strengthens and tones body systems over time.
Aromatic: Contains volatile oils that provide therapeutic effects and distinctive flavor.
Fever and perspiration: Hot sage infusion promotes free perspiration during fevers and conditions where the body needs to release heat through the skin. Important caution: After drinking hot sage tea, avoid exposure to cold or drafts as the pores are wide open and chills may result.
Nervous system: Calming to nervous excitement · Brain agitation · Nervous troubles · Delirium accompanying fevers · General nervine support
Throat conditions: Sore throat · Inflamed throat tissues · Mouth and gum inflammation · As a gargle for oral infections
Lactation management: Sage tea given as a cold infusion (not hot) will, within a few days, cause breast milk production to decrease and eventually stop. This is useful when weaning or when milk production needs to be reduced due to inflammation or other conditions. The standard tea preparation does not harm nursing infants if proper dosage is followed.
Sage is a perennial herbaceous to shrubby plant growing 30-70 cm (1 to 2¼ feet) tall.
Stems: Woody at the base with lower branches. Upper stems are the characteristic square shape of the mint family (Lamiaceae), covered in fine downy hairs. Stems may be green or purplish in color.
Leaves: Opposite arrangement (growing in pairs), petiolate (on short stems), oblong to lanceolate (lance-shaped). Leaves have a distinctive leathery texture and are covered in fine down matching the stem color. Margins are delicately toothed. When crushed, the leaves release a highly characteristic aromatic scent.
Flowers: Blue, typical mint family form, growing in spikes of 5-10 flowers. Flowers are relatively large (up to 3 cm or 1¼ inches). Bloom time is mid-summer to mid-autumn.
Varieties: Several garden varieties exist, including red or purple sage (S. miltiorrhiza) and narrow-leafed sage (S. lavendufolia). These colored varieties appear to be medicinally identical to common garden sage.
Where it grows: Native to southern Europe, particularly the Mediterranean region. Thrives on limestone soils in full sun at elevations up to 750 m (2100 feet).
Cultivation: Prefers well-drained to dry soil that is neutral to alkaline, in full sun. Can be propagated by seed sown in spring, by softwood cuttings, or by layering. Wild sage is collected commercially, especially in Yugoslavia. As plants age, they become woody and sparse; replace every 4-7 years for best leaf production.
Harvest: For oil distillation or drying, pick leaves before flowers open. For immediate fresh use, leaves can be harvested any time during the growing season.
Essential oil (1-2.5%): Composed primarily of thujone (calculated 35-60%) and other monoterpenes, particularly cineole. Small amounts of sesquiterpenes are also present. This is why sage must never be boiled — heat destroys or volatilizes the essential oils.
Tannins (3-7%): Including rosmarinic acid. Provide astringent properties.
Diterpene bitter substances: Including carnosol, picrosalvin, carnosic acid, 12-methylether Y-lactone, rosmarol and its 7-methyl ether, manool, and others. Contribute to the tonic and digestive properties.
Flavonoids: Antioxidant compounds that support overall health.
Saponins: Compounds with various therapeutic properties.
Estrogenic substances: May contribute to sage's effect on lactation and hormone-related conditions.
Other compounds: Resin · Bitter principle · Terpenes including oleonolic acid and derivatives
Standard Hot Infusion (for nervousness, fever, diaphoretic action)
- Measure 14 grams (½ ounce / approximately 2 tablespoons) of dried sage leaves
- Place in a container with a tight-fitting lid
- Pour 476 ml (1 pint / 2 cups) of hot water over the herb — water should be hot but NOT boiling
- Cover immediately and tightly to prevent steam from escaping
- Steep for 10-15 minutes, keeping covered
- Strain and drink while warm
Drink the infusion warm for diaphoretic and nervine effects. After drinking, avoid drafts and cold exposure as the pores will be opened.
Sore Throat Gargle
Ingredients:
Preparation:
- Pour hot (not boiling) water over the sage
- Cover and let steep until cold
- Strain thoroughly
- Add honey and mix well
- Gargle freely as needed
Variation for stronger stimulating gargle: Use equal parts apple cider vinegar and water instead of plain water. Bring the vinegar-water mixture to a boil, pour over the sage, cover, steep until cold, strain, and use freely.
Cold Infusion (to reduce or stop lactation)
- Prepare sage infusion as above using hot water
- Cover and allow to cool completely to room temperature or colder
- Strain
- Drink the cold infusion
- Continue for several days as needed
Within a few days, milk production will decrease and eventually cease. This preparation does not harm nursing infants when standard dosage is followed.
Absolute Contraindications
1. PREGNANCY - Concentrated forms contraindicated
The pure essential oil and tinctures should NOT be taken during pregnancy. Culinary use of sage in cooking is generally considered safe, but concentrated preparations should be avoided.
Important Cautions
2. PROLONGED USE OF CONCENTRATED FORMS
Extended use of tinctures and pure essential oil may cause epileptiform convulsions (seizure-like episodes). This applies to concentrated forms, not to normal culinary use or standard tea preparations.
3. LARGE QUANTITIES SHOULD BE AVOIDED
The high activity of sage is reflected in the toxicity of its components when taken in isolation. Although the toxicity of the whole plant in normal use is negligible, very large quantities should be avoided. Standard tea preparations and culinary use are safe.
Safe Use Guidelines
Thujone content: The essential oil contains significant amounts of thujone, which is responsible for some of the cautionary notes. When sage is used as a standard tea infusion (not boiled, properly prepared), the thujone content is within safe ranges for occasional use.
Lactation use: Using sage tea to reduce milk supply during weaning will not harm a nursing infant if the standard dosage is followed and the mother is adhering to proper preparation methods.
After diaphoretic use: When sage is taken as a hot infusion for its perspiration-inducing effects, be careful to avoid cold exposure, drafts, and chills immediately afterward. The pores are opened freely and the body is vulnerable to sudden temperature changes.
✓ Standard tea preparations are safe for most people
✓ Culinary use in cooking is safe
✓ Never boil sage — use hot (not boiling) water
✓ Always keep container covered to preserve volatile oils
✓ Avoid pure essential oil and tinctures during pregnancy
✓ Avoid prolonged use of concentrated forms
✓ Do not take in very large quantities
✓ After hot infusion, protect yourself from cold/drafts
Dried leaves: Store in airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. Properly stored dried sage retains its aromatic quality for 1-2 years. The characteristic sage scent should remain strong; if the aroma fades significantly, the medicinal quality has diminished.
Fresh leaves: Can be used immediately at any time during the growing season. Fresh leaves have the strongest volatile oil content.
Quality indicators: Good quality sage has a strong, characteristic aromatic scent when crushed. Leaves should be whole or minimally broken, not powdered. Color should be gray-green (may appear more gray due to the fine downy covering).
Prepared infusions: Use the same day. Do not store sage tea for extended periods as the volatile oils will dissipate.
✓ NEVER boil sage — destroys volatile oils; always use hot (not boiling) water
✓ Keep it covered — if steam escapes during infusion, medicinal quality is lost
✓ Nervine action — calms nervous excitement, settles brain agitation, eases fever delirium
✓ Hot vs. cold infusions — hot promotes sweating; cold reduces milk production
✓ Excellent gargle — astringent properties make it effective for sore throat
✓ After hot tea, avoid cold — pores are wide open; protect from drafts and chills
✓ Pregnancy caution — avoid essential oil and tinctures; tea and culinary use generally safe
✓ Aromatic mint family member — contains significant volatile oils that provide medicinal action
✓ Lactation management — cold infusion safely reduces milk production for weaning
✓ Distinctive scent when crushed — characteristic sage aroma indicates good quality
✓ Replace plants every 4-7 years — sage becomes woody and sparse with age
Marshmallow Althaea officinalis L.
Demulcent (Primary): Soothes, protects, and heals inflamed mucous membranes throughout the body. When the root is boiled, it releases a large quantity of mucilage which is pleasant to taste and extremely soothing to irritated tissues. This makes marshmallow valuable for respiratory conditions, digestive inflammation, and urinary tract irritation.
Emollient: Softens and soothes tissues, particularly when applied externally. The mucilaginous quality makes marshmallow excellent for external applications on inflamed, swollen, or damaged skin and tissues.
Respiratory system: Coughs (chronic or acute) · Pharyngitis (throat inflammation) · Laryngitis · Pulmonary troubles · Inflamed respiratory passages
Marshmallow has always been valued for soothing inflamed respiratory tissues. It is typically combined with other respiratory herbs rather than used alone for lung conditions.
Digestive system: Dysentery · Diarrhea · Typhoid fever complications · General digestive inflammation
The soothing mucilage calms irritated digestive tissues and helps restore normal function.
Urinary system: Cystitis (bladder inflammation) · Urethritis · Nephritis · Kidney irritation · Urinary tract inflammation · Painful urination · Interrupted urination · Kidney stones and gravel · Hemorrhage from urinary organs
Marshmallow demonstrates a powerful soothing influence on all irritations of the kidneys and urinary tract. It is particularly helpful when treating kidney stones and gravel because it eases the pain and inflammation these conditions cause.
External applications: Swellings · Pain · Inflammation · Abscesses · Discharging sores · Mastitis · Gum boils · Neuralgia · Sprains · Eye inflammation
Marshmallow leaves (and sometimes roots) are commonly used by herbalists in external fomentations (hot compresses) for a wide range of inflammatory conditions.
Lactation support: The powdered root prepared in milk has a traditional reputation for enriching breast milk quality and increasing milk flow in nursing mothers.
"Mortification Root": In obstinate inflammation where tissue death (mortification/gangrene) threatens, a poultice made from crushed or powdered marshmallow root and applied as hot as possible has such strong efficacy that marshmallow earned the name "Mortification Root." This application was traditionally used to prevent tissue death in severe infections.
Marshmallow is a robust perennial plant growing 1 to 1.2 meters (3 to 4 feet) tall.
Root: Fleshy taproot, thick and mucilaginous. This is the primary medicinal part, though leaves are also used.
Stems: Upright, covered with downy hairs.
Leaves: Hairy with 3-5 lobes or sometimes undivided. Short petioles (leaf stems).
Flowers: Five-petalled, pink or white, 3-4 cm (1.25 to 1.5 inches) across. Flowers appear clustered in the leaf axils (where leaves meet stem) during summer, followed by seed structures called mericarps.
Taste: Mucilaginous (thick and slimy) and sweet. The pleasant taste makes marshmallow more agreeable than many medicinal herbs.
Where it grows: Native to moist places throughout Europe from Norway to Spain. Also found in temperate parts of western and northern Asia, Australia, and eastern North America. Prefers saline areas near seas or estuaries.
Cultivation: Grows wild and can be cultivated. Prefers moist to wet soil in full sun. Propagate by seed sown when ripe in late summer, or by division. Note: Germination can be erratic when growing from seed.
Harvest: Leaves are gathered in summer and dried. Roots are lifted in autumn, preferably from plants that are at least 2 years old, then dried for storage.
The Root
Mucilage (5-10%): The primary therapeutic component. Percentage varies greatly depending on harvesting time and processing. Composed mainly of acidic polysaccharides including arabinan, glucans, and rhamnogalacturonan. This is what creates the thick, soothing coating that protects inflamed tissues.
Pectin sugars: Complex carbohydrates that contribute to the mucilaginous quality.
Asparagine: An amino acid.
Sterols: Present in small amounts.
The Leaves
Mucilage (6-9%): Highest content in leaves harvested shortly before flowering. Composed essentially of arabinogalactans and galactaronorhammans.
Essential oil: Present in trace amounts; composition unknown.
Flavonoids: Including mainone 8-hydroxyluteolin 8-B-gentibioside and the corresponding 8-glucoside.
Standard Decoction (Root) - Internal Use
- Place marshmallow root in cold water
- Bring to a boil
- Continue boiling to extract the mucilage — the water will become thick and slippery
- Strain
- Drink while warm or at room temperature
The boiled root releases large quantities of mucilage into the water, creating a soothing drink for internal inflammation.
For Urinary Hemorrhage & Diarrhea (Root in Milk)
- Place powdered marshmallow root in milk
- Bring to a boil
- Simmer until mucilage is extracted
- Drink freely
This preparation is most effective for hemorrhage from the urinary organs. The same method is also extremely good for diarrhea and dysentery. Additionally, this milk-based preparation has a reputation for enriching breast milk and increasing milk flow in nursing mothers.
External Fomentation (Leaves or Root)
- Make a strong decoction by boiling marshmallow leaves or root in water
- Wring out a flannel cloth in the hot liquid
- Apply as hot as can be safely tolerated to the affected area
- Continue the fomentation for one hour at a time
- Repeat as frequently as convenient
This method is used for swellings, pain, inflammation, abscesses, and discharging sores. Many practitioners can speak from years of experience about the value of marshmallow fomentation.
Eye Inflammation Wash
Ingredients:
*Red Raspberry - not included in the 20-herb foundation course.
Preparation:
- Boil both herbs in 714 ml (1½ pints) of water
- Continue boiling until reduced down to 476 ml (1 pint)
- Strain thoroughly
- Allow to cool completely
- Bathe the eyes with the cold decoction half a dozen times daily
Anti-Mortification Poultice (for severe inflammation)
- Crush or powder fresh or dried marshmallow root
- Mix with enough warm water to create a paste
- Apply directly to the area where tissue death (mortification) threatens
- Apply as hot as possible while still safe
- Cover and keep warm
- Replace frequently
This preparation was traditionally used in obstinate inflammation where gangrene or tissue death was a risk.
Marshmallow is frequently combined with other herbs to create more complete and effective formulas. Here are some traditional combinations:
For Respiratory Conditions
Combine marshmallow with expectorant and lung-supporting herbs such as:
- Hyssop* (Hyssopus officinalis)
- Elecampane* (Inula helenium)
*Not included in 20-herb foundation course.
When blood is expectorated from the lungs, or when the mucous membranes need both soothing and toning, these combinations provide comprehensive support. The demulcent and tonic properties comfort the inflamed surfaces while influencing mucous secretions and assisting the natural discharge process.
For Uterine Conditions
Combined with Motherwort* (Leonurus cardiaca), marshmallow will tone the uterine membranes and restore equilibrium, making it applicable for various uterine conditions.
*Motherwort - not included in 20-herb foundation course.
External Fomentation Combinations
For mastitis, gum boils, and neuralgia:
*Chamomile and Poppy - not included in 20-herb foundation course.
For sprains and swellings:
*Ragwort - not included in 20-herb foundation course.
Make a strong decoction and apply as a hot fomentation.
Contraindications: None known.
Side effects: None noted.
Marshmallow has an excellent safety profile. There is no record of toxic ingestion of the whole herb.
Important Note About Derivatives
Large doses of isolated derivatives (concentrated extracts of specific compounds) have caused heart rhythm problems in some cases. However, this applies to chemical derivatives, not to the whole herb prepared in traditional ways.
Standard preparations using the whole root or leaves have no such concerns and are considered very safe.
Taste Considerations
Marshmallow is not as widely used as it perhaps should be, partly because some people find the mucilaginous texture unpleasant. The taste itself is sweet and agreeable, but the thick, slippery consistency takes some getting used to. Adding it to milk or combining it with more pleasant-tasting herbs can help with palatability.
✓ No known contraindications for whole herb preparations
✓ No side effects noted with traditional use
✓ Safe for most people including children and elderly
✓ The mucilaginous texture is safe; it's what provides the therapeutic effect
✓ Can be used both internally and externally
✓ Traditional preparations are very safe; isolated derivatives should be avoided
Dried root: Store in airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. Properly stored dried marshmallow root retains quality for 2-3 years. Should remain free of mold and maintain its characteristic sweet smell.
Dried leaves: Store in airtight container away from light and moisture. Shelf life: 1-2 years. Should retain green color and not become dusty or moldy.
Fresh root: Most mucilaginous when fresh. Can be stored in cool, damp conditions for a short time, but is best used soon after harvesting.
Prepared decoctions: The usual infusion or decoction will keep long enough to be used up before fermentation begins if kept in a cool place. If longer storage is needed, preservatives must be added. Generally, prepare fresh for each use or store refrigerated for 1-2 days maximum.
Important storage note: When combining the root with other herbs in preparations, herbal mixtures made should be kept in a cool place unless preservatives are used. Some herbal preparations can go sour or ferment if left at room temperature, though the usual infusion or decoction keeps long enough to be consumed before this occurs.
Quality indicators: Good quality marshmallow root should be pale colored (cream to light brown), thick and fibrous. When chewed or soaked in water, it should release abundant mucilage. Leaves should be whole or minimally broken, retain green-gray color, and be free of mold.
✓ "Mortification Root" — traditional name from its use in preventing tissue death in severe inflammation
✓ Both root and leaves medicinal — root is stronger; both can be used
✓ Boiled preparation — unlike sage, marshmallow IS boiled to extract the mucilage
✓ Triple action: respiratory, digestive, urinary — soothes inflammation in all three systems
✓ Excellent external application — fomentations for swellings, inflammation, abscesses, sprains
✓ Very safe — no known contraindications or side effects with whole herb
✓ Sweet, mucilaginous taste — pleasant flavor but thick, slippery texture
✓ Urinary hemorrhage — most effective when powdered root is boiled in milk
✓ Works well in combinations — frequently combined with other herbs for comprehensive support
✓ Eye wash with red raspberry — traditional preparation for eye inflammation
✓ Supports nursing mothers — enriches milk and increases flow when prepared in milk
✓ Harvest timing matters — leaves highest in mucilage just before flowering; roots best from 2-year plants
Where These Formulas Come From
My father spent over 40 years testing, adjusting, and refining herbal formulas for real families. What you have here are first-level formulas — the starting points, the proven combinations he began with. They are not the finished, refined formulas in our professional capsule product line. Those represent decades of continued development on top of this foundation.
These formulas are yours to use, learn from, and experiment with. They work. But understand what you are holding: a starting point, not an endpoint. The ratio IS the formula. You cannot simply pick up any herbal combination, use any quantities, and expect the same results. Understanding why each herb is present, why the ratios are what they are, and what role each herb is playing — that is the real education. That is what these formula classes are teaching you.
When you eventually hold one of our professional formulas and compare it to these starting points, you will understand — in a way you couldn't before this course — exactly what 40 years of refinement looks like.
Understanding How Formulas Are Built
Formulas nourish body systems — they don't target diseases. The body knows how to heal itself when the right system receives adequate nutrients and support. A well-built formula covers all aspects of a body system so the body can do its own work. This is also why these formulas are more legally appropriate and more broadly useful than disease-specific treatments.
Ratios tell the formula where to go. The herb present in the largest amount generally leads the formula toward the body system it most directly affects. Reverse those ratios and you've changed what the formula is emphasizing. Same herbs, different direction.
Sometimes herbs are equal contributors. Not every formula has a single leader. When several herbs appear in similar amounts all working within the same body system, they are equal partners, each doing slightly different things within that same system to give broader, more complete support.
Formula Set — Comfrey Root · Sage · Marshmallow
With these three herbs — plus the foundation you've already built with Peppermint, Catnip, Fennel, Goldenseal, and Cayenne — you can now address seventeen different conditions. Comfrey Root brings powerful nutritive support and tissue healing. Sage offers diaphoretic, nervine, and astringent actions. Marshmallow provides deep demulcent soothing throughout the body.
After Birth Pain
Recipe
Total: 7g herbs · 700ml water (about 3 cups)
Preparation
- Place 1.4g Marshmallow in a pot with 140ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- While the Marshmallow is simmering, place 2.8g Comfrey Leaf, 2.8g Peppermint in a separate container with 560ml of cold water, cover and allow to soak
- Once the simmering herb is done, pour the soaking herbs and their cold water directly into the simmering pot
- Bring back up to a simmer, then remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
Three servings of 237ml (1 cup) per day.
Why this formula works: Comfrey Leaf and Peppermint co-lead in equal dominant amounts. Comfrey Leaf targets tissue healing and repair in the pelvic and reproductive area with its vulnerary and demulcent properties, while Peppermint stimulates circulation and brings anti-spasmodic relief. Marshmallow supports by soothing the surrounding mucous membranes. When tissue healing is accelerated, circulation is stimulated and spasm is relieved, postpartum pain and recovery are improved.
Anemia
Recipe
Total: 7g herbs · 700ml water (about 3 cups)
Preparation
- Place 7g Comfrey Root in a pot with 700ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- Once it reaches a simmer, remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
Also recommended: Cook food in cast iron cookware.
How to Take
Three servings of 237ml (1 cup) per day.
Why this formula works: Comfrey Root leads as the sole herb, its rich iron, vitamin B12, and mineral content directly supporting red blood cell production and blood health. Cooking food in cast iron cookware is also traditionally recommended alongside this formula. When the body receives the specific iron and vitamins needed for red blood cell production, anemia is addressed at its nutritive root.
Breast Milk (To Dry Up)
Recipe
Total: 10g herbs · 1000ml water (about 4 cups)
Preparation
- Place 10g Sage in a pot with 1000ml of cold water
- Cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- Once it reaches a simmer, remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
Important: Drink cold for best results.
How to Take
237ml (1 cup) every hour until condition improves, adjust as needed.
Why this formula works: Sage leads as the sole herb with its sudorific and astringent properties targeting the mammary glands — its sudorific properties redirect secretion outward through perspiration rather than through milk production, while its astringent properties tone and tighten the mammary tissue to reduce milk flow. When secretion is redirected through perspiration and the mammary tissue is toned and tightened by astringent action, milk production naturally decreases.
Constipation
Recipe
Total: 2.5g herbs · 250ml water (1 cup)
Preparation
- Place 2g Catnip, 0.5g Sage in a pot with 250ml of cold water
- Cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- Once it reaches a simmer, remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
As you may desire.
Why this formula works: Catnip leads through the digestive nerve plexus, relaxing tension and stimulating proper nerve-driven peristalsis. Sage supports with its astringent and tonic properties, toning the colon tissue. Together they address both the nerve and tissue components of sluggish bowel function. When the digestive nerve plexus is relaxed and the colon tissue is toned, normal bowel movement is restored.
Other beneficial herbs you might consider:
Endurance
Recipe
Total: 5g herbs · 500ml water (2 cups)
Note: Mormon Tea can be added in Session 4 for enhanced results (equal parts all three herbs)
Preparation
- Place 2.5g Comfrey Leaf, 2.5g Sage in a pot with 500ml of cold water
- Cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- Once it reaches a simmer, remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
As you may desire.
Why this formula works: Comfrey Leaf provides its rich nutritive content of vitamins and minerals to sustain the body. Sage contributes its tonic and nervine properties to support sustained energy and mental clarity. When the body is fully nourished and the nervous system is toned, sustained energy and endurance follow.
Flu
Recipe
Total: 5g herbs · 500ml water (2 cups)
Preparation
- Place 0.5g Goldenseal Root in a pot with 50ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- While the Goldenseal Root is simmering, place 3.3g Comfrey Leaf, 1.2g Sage in a separate container with 450ml of cold water, cover and allow to soak
- Once the simmering herb is done, pour the soaking herbs and their cold water directly into the simmering pot
- Bring back up to a simmer, then remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
118ml (½ cup) four times a day.
Why this formula works: Comfrey Leaf leads as the dominant herb, targeting the respiratory mucous membranes with its pectoral and demulcent properties. Sage supports with aromatic antiseptic and expectorant action. Goldenseal Root provides antiseptic toning in a small amount. Together they address the mucous membranes, infection and inflammation of flu. When the respiratory membranes are healed, infection is addressed and mucus is cleared, flu symptoms are resolved.
Other beneficial herbs you might consider:
Hypoglycemia
Recipe
Total: 5g herbs · 500ml water (2 cups)
Preparation
- Place 2.5g Fennel, 2.5g Marshmallow in a pot with 500ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- Once it reaches a simmer, remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
118ml (½ cup) four times a day.
Why this formula works: Fennel leads through its liver affinity, directly stimulating the liver and pancreatic glandular function responsible for blood sugar regulation. Marshmallow supports with demulcent soothing of the digestive mucous membranes, creating a gentler environment for glucose absorption. When the liver and pancreas are stimulated through Fennel's glandular affinity and the digestive environment is soothed, blood sugar regulation is better supported.
Other beneficial herbs you might consider:
Throat
Recipe
Total: 7g herbs · 700ml water (about 3 cups)
Preparation
- Place 7g Sage in a pot with 700ml of cold water
- Cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- Once it reaches a simmer, remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
Three servings of 237ml (1 cup) per day.
Why this formula works: Sage leads as the sole herb, its astringent properties toning and tightening the inflamed throat mucous membranes, its aromatic antiseptic properties fighting infection, and its tonic properties restoring healthy tissue tone. When the inflamed throat tissue is toned and the infection is addressed with antiseptic properties, the throat heals.
Other beneficial herbs you might consider:
Thrush
Recipe
Total: 2.5g herbs · 250ml water (1 cup)
Preparation
- Place 1.25g Comfrey Root in a pot with 125ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- While the Comfrey Root is simmering, place 1.25g Comfrey Leaf in a separate container with 125ml of cold water, cover and allow to soak
- Once the simmering herb is done, pour the soaking herbs and their cold water directly into the simmering pot
- Bring back up to a simmer, then remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
15ml (1 tablespoon) every hour, or as needed.
Why this formula works: Comfrey Leaf and Comfrey Root are equal partners, both bringing their vulnerary, demulcent and mucilaginous properties to heal and soothe the mucous membranes affected by thrush. Comfrey Root brings stronger mucilaginous protection while Comfrey Leaf contributes broad nutritive and vulnerary support. When the affected mucous membranes are coated, soothed and healed, the environment supporting thrush overgrowth is disrupted and the tissue recovers.
Ulcers
Recipe
Total: ~10g herbs · 1000ml water (about 4 cups)
Preparation
- Place 3.3g Marshmallow in a pot with 330ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- While the Marshmallow is simmering, place 3.3g Catnip, 3.3g Comfrey Leaf in a separate container with 670ml of cold water, cover and allow to soak
- Once the simmering herb is done, pour the soaking herbs and their cold water directly into the simmering pot
- Bring back up to a simmer, then remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Add a small pinch of Goldenseal Root to the steeping herbs
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
237ml (1 cup) every hour until condition improves, adjust as needed.
Why this formula works: Catnip leads through the digestive nerve plexus, calming the nerve-driven acid response that worsens ulcers. Comfrey Leaf heals the ulcerated tissue with its vulnerary properties. Marshmallow coats the ulcer with its mucilaginous properties. Goldenseal Root provides antiseptic toning in a small amount. When the nerve response is calmed, the ulcerated tissue is healed and coated, and infection is reduced, ulcers resolve.
Other beneficial herbs you might consider:
Vaginal Douche
Recipe
Total: 5g herbs · 500ml water (2 cups)
Preparation
- Place 1.7g Marshmallow in a pot with 170ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- While the Marshmallow is simmering, place 3.3g Comfrey Leaf in a separate container with 330ml of cold water, cover and allow to soak
- Once the simmering herb is done, pour the soaking herbs and their cold water directly into the simmering pot
- Bring back up to a simmer, then remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Use
As you may desire, used as a vaginal douche.
Why this formula works: Comfrey Leaf leads as the dominant herb, targeting tissue healing and soothing of the vaginal mucous membranes with its vulnerary and demulcent properties. Marshmallow supports with additional demulcent and emollient soothing. The tea is prepared normally and cooled to a comfortable temperature before use as a douche. When the vaginal mucous membranes are healed and soothed with demulcent properties applied directly, irritation, inflammation and infection are reduced.
Other beneficial herbs you might consider:
Hoarseness
Recipe
Total: 7g herbs · 700ml water (about 3 cups)
Preparation
Follow same preparation as THROAT formula above.
How to Take
Three servings of 237ml (1 cup) per day.
Why this formula works: Sage leads as the sole herb targeting the throat and vocal cords directly — its astringent properties tone and tighten the vocal tissue restoring normal cord tension, while its aromatic properties address any infectious component. Hoarseness specifically responds to the astringent toning of the vocal cords and throat tissue which Sage delivers directly. When the vocal cords are toned with astringent properties and infection is addressed, normal voice function is restored.
Laxative
Recipe
Follow same preparation as CONSTIPATION formula above.
How to Take
As you may desire.
Why this formula works: Catnip leads as the dominant herb through the digestive nerve plexus, relaxing smooth muscle tension in the colon and stimulating proper peristaltic movement. Sage supports with its astringent and tonic properties toning the colon tissue. When the nerve plexus is relaxed and the colon tissue is toned, natural bowel movement is restored.
Colon
Recipe
Total: 6.9g herbs · 690ml water (about 3 cups)
Preparation
- Place 2.3g Marshmallow in a pot with 230ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- While the Marshmallow is simmering, place 2.3g Comfrey Leaf, 2.3g Sage in a separate container with 460ml of cold water, cover and allow to soak
- Once the simmering herb is done, pour the soaking herbs and their cold water directly into the simmering pot
- Bring back up to a simmer, then remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
Three servings of 237ml (1 cup) per day.
Why this formula works: All three herbs are equal partners. Comfrey Leaf heals the colonic mucous membranes with its vulnerary and demulcent properties. Sage tones the colon tissue with its astringent properties. Marshmallow soothes and coats the colon lining. When the colonic lining is simultaneously healed, toned and soothed, comprehensive colon restoration results.
Digestive Disorder
Recipe
Total: 7.5g herbs · 750ml water (3 cups)
Preparation
- Place 2.5g Fennel, 2.5g Marshmallow in a pot with 500ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- While the Fennel and Marshmallow are simmering, place 2.5g Comfrey Leaf in a separate container with 250ml of cold water, cover and allow to soak
- Once the simmering herbs are done, pour the soaking herbs and their cold water directly into the simmering pot
- Bring back up to a simmer, then remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
As you may desire.
Why this formula works: Comfrey Leaf heals and soothes the digestive mucous membranes with its demulcent and vulnerary properties. Fennel stimulates the liver and digestive gland function through its glandular affinity. Marshmallow coats and protects the digestive lining. When the digestive mucous membranes are healed, glandular function is stimulated and the lining is coated and protected, digestive function normalizes.
Gout
Recipe
Total: 5.1g herbs · 510ml water (about 2 cups)
Preparation
- Place 1.7g Fennel, 1.7g Marshmallow in a pot with 340ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- While the Fennel and Marshmallow are simmering, place 1.7g Comfrey Leaf in a separate container with 170ml of cold water, cover and allow to soak
- Once the simmering herbs are done, pour the soaking herbs and their cold water directly into the simmering pot
- Bring back up to a simmer, then remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
118ml (½ cup) four times a day.
Why this formula works: All three herbs are equal partners. Comfrey Leaf brings vulnerary and demulcent properties to support joint tissue. Fennel contributes diuretic properties through the liver to support elimination. Marshmallow adds diuretic and soothing action. Together they address both the tissue and elimination aspects of gout. When joint tissue is supported and elimination of the accumulating substances is enhanced, gout symptoms are reduced.
Nerves
Recipe
Total: 7.5g herbs · 750ml water (3 cups)
Preparation
- Place 2.5g Fennel, 2.5g Marshmallow in a pot with 500ml of cold water, cover with a tight lid
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, keeping the lid on as much as possible
- While the Fennel and Marshmallow are simmering, place 2.5g Catnip in a separate container with 250ml of cold water, cover and allow to soak
- Once the simmering herbs are done, pour the soaking herbs and their cold water directly into the simmering pot
- Bring back up to a simmer, then remove from heat
- Keep the lid on and let steep for 15 to 20 minutes
- Pour through a cheesecloth, fine fabric, or straining cloth and squeeze thoroughly to extract as much liquid as possible
How to Take
As you may desire.
Why this formula works: All three herbs are equal partners. Catnip targets the nerve plexus directly with its relaxing and nervine properties, calming the digestive and pelvic nerve supply. Fennel supports through the liver and glandular system, supporting the nutritive supply available to the nervous system. Marshmallow soothes the tissue surrounding the nerve supply, reducing physical irritation. When the nerve plexus is relaxed, proper nutritive support is available and surrounding tissue is soothed, nervous system function is restored.