Symphytum uplandicum vs Plai

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Symphytum uplandicum

Symphytum x uplandicum

Musculoskeletal

Zingiber cassumunar

Musculoskeletal

Symphytum uplandicum

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Plai

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Hybrid comfrey with higher pyrrolizidine alkaloid content; used topically for musculoskeletal conditions.

A Thai ginger species used as the primary anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant herb in Thai massage therapy.

Active Compounds

allantoin, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, mucilage, rosmarinic acid

cassumunarins, phenylbutenoids, zerumbone, terpenes

Traditional Uses

muscle pain, joint inflammation, bruises, bone healing

muscle pain, arthritis, sprain, inflammation

Modern Uses

topical analgesic, anti-inflammatory cream

anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, muscle relaxant

Adult Dosage

Topical cream applied 2-3x/day

Topical balm. Internal: 3-6g daily

Contraindications

pregnancy, lactation, internal use, open wounds

pregnancy topically, broken skin

Side Effects

local irritation, hepatotoxicity if ingested

skin sensitization with prolonged topical use

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E