Comfrey for Dogs: A Natural Remedy for Sprains and Strains

andrea090170
Oct 5
2 min read

Sprains and strains are common injuries in dogs, especially active breeds or those who love a good run and tumble. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, making it hard for your pooch to move comfortably.

One herb that’s been trusted for centuries for healing injuries is comfrey (Symphytum officinale). Known as “knitbone” in traditional herbal medicine, comfrey is valued for its ability to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and support the body’s natural healing process.

Why Comfrey Helps

Comfrey contains powerful compounds like allantoin and rosmarinic acid:

Anti-inflammatory → reduces swelling and stiffness
Analgesic → eases pain and discomfort
Cell-regenerative → supports tissue repair

This makes it an ideal topical remedy for sprains, strains, and bruises.

Safe Use of Comfrey

⚠️ Important: Comfrey should only ever be used externally for dogs. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be harmful if ingested in large amounts.

Never let your dog eat comfrey leaves or roots.
Use only as a poultice, compress, or infused oil.
Monitor to prevent licking or chewing (a collar may help!).

How to Use Comfrey for Sprains & Strains

1. Comfrey Poultice

Mix dried comfrey leaves with a little water to form a paste.
Apply to the affected area and cover with a clean cloth or bandage.
Leave on for several hours or overnight.
Repeat 1–2 times daily until improvement.

👉 Real-life note: when I made a comfrey oil, I was convinced a fox had sneaked into the house - the smell is that strong! Adding a drop of dog-safe essential oil (like lavender) can help.

2. Comfrey Infused Oil

Infuse dried comfrey leaves in olive or coconut oil for 2–4 weeks.
Strain and store in a clean jar.
Massage gently into the injured area to reduce inflammation and support healing.

This is especially helpful for longer-lasting injuries or dogs who don’t tolerate poultices well.

Final Thoughts

Comfrey truly lives up to its nickname “knitbone.” Its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties make it a valuable ally for helping your dog recover from sprains and strains naturally.

Used responsibly - and always with professional guidance - comfrey can ease discomfort, speed up recovery, and get your pooch back on their paws.