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.
Plantain was used in time past to heal the bites of “mad dogs, snakes, and venomous creatures.” On this side of the ocean, Native Americans learned to use plantain in the same way. In colonial America a slave would be freed if he taught them how to use plantain to cure rattlesnake bite. An article written in 1710 listing the benefits of plantain leaf made it sound like the proverbial medicine man’s elixir, Doctor Magic’s Cure for everything!
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 contact healer. As such, it is essential for emergency situations to stop itching and/or bleeding, reduce inflammation, kill infection, etc. Basically, along with cayenne, and comfrey, plantain is a must in case of physical injuries.
Plantain is also available as a supplement in liquid extract and capsule form. The usual dosage for, say, bronchial symptoms is 6 grams in capsules or one teaspoon of liquid extract three times a day. A simple ointment can be made using olive oil, extract of fresh plantain, and a little beeswax. Apply this to skin ailments, including diaper rash. Or rub fresh plantain leaves on the skin to soothe poison ivy, bug bites, eczema or other minor skin irritations. You can also make a soothing poultice of fresh, mashed leaves mixed in a little cool water. Apply it to sunburns.
Plantain is both good for you and safe. Though some reaction to excessive amounts has been reported, there are no known reactions to normal use. Just remember to keep it cool or frozen to preserve its value.
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Those who regularly use Plantain receive quick healing from wounds, relief from bites and stings, calms indigestion and more health boosting benefits. To find out more about this and other bulk dried herbs, visit More Than Alive - a trusted resource for family health information.
