Plantain…A Healing Wonder

Plantain (Plantago major) is a perennial plant. It is a tall, erect plant with well veined leaves. Grooved flower stalks grow from 6-30 inches high. They are tipped off by a short spike of tiny white flowers. Flowering time is from April to November. Fruiting spike has many small, hard fruits.

Plantain is a very common weed , Plantain grows in waste places, backyards, and in fields. Plantain is native to Europe, but is common throughout the United States.

Some common names for plantain are Lance-leaf Plantain, Buckhorn, Ch’e-ch’ien (it’s Chinese herbal name), and Englishman’s Footprint.

Herbalists use the leaves of the plant, either fresh or dried.

Legend of the Plantain Herb

Plantain’s common name of Englishman’s Footprint, came from the Native Americans. Their tradition maintains that plantain springs up wherever Englishman step their foot. The botanical name is derived from the word “planta,” a foot, and “ago” a wort (meaning plant) in allusion to the shape of the broad leaves as they lay on the ground. In the old days, they use to kill spiders with plantain tea sprinkled on their cobwebs. An 18th century physician wrote: “in his own experience, he has found that fresh plantain leaves, placed upon the feet, will ease the pain and fatigue engendered by long walks.”

Herbal Uses for Plantain

Herbalists consider Plantain an Alterative, antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, expectorant, styptic, and vulnerary. It’s medicinal values make it a widely popular herb in many herbal preparations.

Plantain is a useful remedy for cough irritations and hoarseness. Plantain is good for all respiratory problems, bronchitis, asthma, especially those involving mucous congestion.

The fresh juice pressed from the whole plant, or an infusion or tea is helpful for hay fever, and allergic rhinitis.

Externally, the fresh leaves are crushed for application to insect bites or stings. Chew up a bit, and apply it to the area. Plantain Oil can help with minor burns, ringworms, shingles, scalds, wounds, sores, cuts, scratches, and boils. It can be used as an appetite supressant.

These are some of the most common herbal uses of Plantain.