Plantain

Common Name: Plantain

Latin Name: Plantago major

History:

Considered a common weed across all parts of North America, Plantain is one of those humble herbs that is often overlooked. There are two types of Plantain – narrow leaf and broad leaf. Most gardeners will dig plantain out of their garden - but personally it's a favourite and I will keep a few patches for first aid treatments like wasp or mosquito bites and wound healing.  Internally it's considered soothing to inflammation and calming mucous membranes and makes a good tea for coughs and irritated bronchioles.  It is highly nutritious and is a herb that is considered a food and medicine. 

Parts Used:  Leaves, seeds and root

Actions:  Expectorant, demulcent, astringent, diuretic, vulnerary

Medicinal Uses:

Plantain is particularly useful as a first aid herb for cuts, scrapes, insect bites, bee stings and irritated skin. The fresh leaf can be chewed or crushed and applied directly to the affected area to help soothe itching and irritation, or made into a poultice to help draw out dirt, stingers and other irritants. It can also be used for hives, rashes and other skin conditions.

Internally, Plantain's expectorant and demulcent properties make it a soothing herb for coughs, irritated airways and bronchial complaints. Its astringent properties have traditionally made it useful for diarrhoea and haemorrhoids, and it can be prepared as a tea or used in an ointment for these purposes. Plantain is also a nutritious edible herb and can be eaten when the leaves are young and tender.

Used In: 

All Heal Salve, Hand Cream, Nipple Creme, Baby Body Foam, Baby Creme