Comfrey has been cultivated since about 400 BC as a healing herb and is truly one of nature's miracle cures. Comfrey is a herbaceous perennial plant with short, thick, tuberous roots, a deep and expansive root system. Comfrey has a wide range of medicinal benefits. Comfrey is mainly used externally to treat inflammation and to stimulate wound and fracture healing. The roots and leaves of comfrey contain allantoin, a substance that promotes wound healing and tissue regeneration. The comfrey root is also used internally against coughs and other respiratory problems such as bronchitis and pleurisy. Comfrey plant and root should not be eaten as a vegetable.