What specific toxic compounds are associated with Comfrey tea consumption causing liver damage?
Answer
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids
Comfrey tea carries an elevated intrinsic risk due to the presence of specific toxic compounds derived from the plant. Health agencies have noted that consumption of comfrey tea has been associated with liver damage. This hepatotoxicity is directly attributed to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids within the herb. These alkaloids are known liver toxins, and when ingested, they can cause significant strain or damage to liver tissue. Therefore, even when considering general safety profiles, certain herbs like comfrey require strict avoidance or expert guidance due to these inherent chemical dangers.
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