(Broadleaf Plantain)
(Narrowleaf Plantain)
You may have stumbled across plantain while being on a walk or partaking in outdoor activities. Plantain (Plantago major), also known as waybread and ribwort, is a flowering plant that is native to Eurasia, but is found mostly in temperate regions of the world. Plantain is physically tough in nature, to handle being stepped on, trampled on, and driven on. There are 34 species of plantain and all of them are edible and medicinal with broadleaf and narrowleaf being the most common in the United States. Early settlers and travelers used extracts from the leaves of broadleaf plantain to treat foot injuries, while also using its young leaves, which resemble spinach, as a salad. In the past, broadleaf plantain was cultivated in monasteries for its various medicinal properties. Apart from its antimicrobial and antioxidant attributes, broadleaf plantain has been documented to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. It also has been shown to boost the immune system and to help treat ulcers, diarrhea and fatigue. The medicinal value of broadleaf plantain can be attributed to the various biochemical constituents, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic acid derivatives and terpenoids, present in it.
Traditional Uses:
While specific medicinal uses of Plantain are not widely documented, it has been traditionally used as food and as a folk remedy for centuries for many conditions, such as headaches, wounds, rabies, gout, broken bones, arthritic joints, sore throats, gum infections, toothaches, tumors, muscle swellings, to increase sperm count, and for drawing out toxins.
Potential Herbal Actions:
Scientific research is limited, but potential herbal actions may be:
• Demulcent: forms a soothing film over mucus membranes, relieving minor pain or inflammation by drawing out toxins
• Alterative: Restores the proper function of the body and increase health and vitality
• Expectorant: Help the body to remove excess mucus from the lungs
• Diuretic: Increases the secretion & elimination of urine from the body
• Antibacterial: inhibits the growth of bacteria
• Febrifuge: reduces fever
• Ophthalmic: aids in draining the eye or structures near the eye
• Vulnerary: treats or heals wounds
Cautions and Considerations:
• Limited Research: It's crucial to remember that research specifically on Plantain is limited, and its safety and efficacy haven't been fully established.
• Allergies: As with any plant, some individuals may be allergic to plantain
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using it due to a lack of safety data.
• Sustainable Harvesting: If you plan to wildcraft Plantain, ensure you do so sustainably and with respect for the environment.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult 1 with a qualified healthcare professional 2 before using any herbal remedies.
