Symphytum caucasicum
Symphytum caucasicum
Safety & Hazards
No reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, but the following reports have been seen for Symphytum officinale. This plant contains small quantities of a toxic alkaloid which can have a cumulative effect upon the liver. Largest concentrations are found in the roots, leaves contain higher quantities of the alkaloid as they grow older and young leaves contain almost none. Most people would have to consume very large quantities of the plant in order to do any harm, though anyone with liver problems should obviously be more cautious. In general, the health-promoting properties of the plant probably far outweigh any possible disbenefits, especially if only the younger leaves are used.
Botanical Description
Symphytum caucasicum is a herbaceous perennial plant with long, thick roots and a reduced rhizome that produces a ticht clump of growth; it can grow 40 - 60cm tall The plant is harvested from the wild and widely used both as a traditional medicine and also to make modern pharmaceuticals. It is particularly effective in treating cuts and injuries plus gastrointestinal problems. The plant is also used locally as a food and source of materials. It is sometimes cultivated on a small scale as a source of biomass and for its medicinal uses.