Greater plantain is native to Asia and Europe, but now grows all over the world. In the UK it is classed as a weed. It should not be confused with the banana-like food, plantain. Another plantain called ribwort plantain (plantago lanceolata) is similar in action, but Plantago Major is preferred in herbal medicine. It is mainly the leaves which are used medicinally, but sometimes the seeds can be of use as a laxative.
Medicinal Properties of Plantain
The leaf contains a variety of compounds including irridoids (mainly aucubin), tannins, flavanoids (particularly apigenin), mucilage and a variety of plant acids. Acubin is a mild laxative and diuretic, whereas apigenin and another flavanoid, baicalein are both anti-inflammatory, whilst baicalein is also anti-histamine. It is anti-haemorrhagic, antibacterial, haemostatic (reduces internal bleeding), astringent, blood tonic, expectorant, demulcent (soothing) and antacid .
Plantain Herbal Remedies
Historically Plantain has been used to treat a number of conditions including:
Bites, stings, cuts and burns (topically)
Bleeding gums (mouth wash)
Bronchitis
Coughs
Cystitis (where traces of blood appear in the urine)
Eczema and dermatitis (topically)
Irritable bowel syndrome (enema)
Piles (topically)
Shingles (topically)
Stomach ulcers
Toothache (mouth wash)
Vaginal thrush (douche)
Other Plantain Information
The leaves can be infused and made into a herbal tea or fresh leaves can be juiced and mixed with honey. Either can be taken up to three times per day. Capsules and tablets are available and a qualified herbalist can make up other preparations such as tinctures or syrups for respiratory problems and coughs.
Topically, fresh leaves can be applied directly to the affected area up to four times per day, creams and ointments can also be used. A qualified herbalist can also make salves and enema preparations.
Side Effects of Plantain
The safety of plantain during pregnancy and lactation has not been sufficiently studied and should therefore be avoided unless otherwise directed by a qualified herbalist.
At the time of writing there are no other well known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications.
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