Plantain (officially Plantago major) is a weed commonly found in the wild and (much to suburbanites’ chagrin) the lawns of almost everyone living in temperate climates. Just think, here’s a weed probably found in your yard that you used to kill, and now, after reading this, you will want to harvest! There are over 200 species. You can find it quickly when you see the green, nubby spikes, which stick up out of a cluster of round leaves.

In time last, plantain was used to heal the bites of “mad dogs, snakes, and venomous creatures.” In North America, Native Americans used plantain in the same way. For example, in colonial America a slave could win his freedom if he taught his master how to use plantain to cure rattlesnake bite. An article written in 1710 listed many plantain leaf benefits. Reading it, one wonders if this was not the medicine man’s secret brew that could heal anything!

Take a few fresh leaves, crush or chew them, and see how quickly they stop the bleeding of an open wound or the pain and inflammation of bites and stings. Plantain can also be used to treat minor cuts and a wide range of skin disorders, including dandruff, eczema, or sunburn. Plantain is like a First Aid kit growing in the lawn! A cup of strong Plantain tea will calm indigestion, and the leaf will relieve the pain of a toothache. In Europe they endorse plantain as a treatment for bronchitis, sore throat, and cold symptoms.

In more recent times, plantain has been acclaimed for its ability to relieve bee stings, insect and spider bites, and rashes from an unfortunate encounter with Poison Ivy or Stinging Nettles. Dr. Christopher called Plantain, Jewelweed, and Hound’s Tongue “Nature’s erasers.” He said, “Stand anywhere within sight of Poison Ivy, and look about. You will always see at least one of these plants, placed by the hand of God to come to your aid, if you should need it.” Plantain will protect the body against tumors and help resist damage to the liver from chemotherapy drugs. The fiber and mucilage from the seeds of the Plantago species are the primary fiber supplement for millions of people around the world.

Plantain leaf contains an anti-inflammatory substance called allantoin. This stimulates the growth of new skin cells, kills germs, and speeds wound healing. Many commercial cosmetic creams and lotions list it as an active ingredient.
Plantain is a must in case of physical injuries because it is a contact healer. As such, along with cayenne, and comfrey, it is essential for emergency situations to stop itching and/or bleeding, kill infection, reduce inflammation, etc.

A simple ointment, made with an olive oil, extract of fresh plantain, and a little beeswax makes a very effective treatment for skin ailments, including diaper rash. To soothe bug bites, eczema, poison ivy, or other minor skin irritations, rub fresh plantain leaves on the affected area. You can also make a soothing poultice of fresh, mashed leaves and a little cool water. Apply it to sunburns. Plantain is also available as a supplement in liquid extract and capsule form. The usual dosage for bronchial symptoms is one teaspoon of liquid extract three times a day, or up to 6,000 milligrams in capsules per day.

The good news is that plantain is not only good for you, but it is also safe to take. Though consuming extremely large amounts could cause diarrhea, skin rash, or other allergic reaction, there have been no toxic reactions reported with the normal use of plantain. However, it is very critical to store plantain in a dark, dry, and cool place. Refrigerating or freezing it is recommended but not necessary. By keeping it cool, you will delay the decay of its highly valued properties.

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Tags: alternative medicine, plantain, plantain herb, plantain leaf, plantain leaves

This entry was posted on Monday, July 19th, 2010 at 4:18 pm and is filed under Massage Therapy. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.