Plantain
Plantain - Plantago spp. (many species)
Medicinal plantain, found nearly all over the world in lawns, fields and meadows, has a wealth of therapeutic properties that have been used for centuries. Historically called “Mother of Herbs” by the Anglo-Saxons and “All Heal” by American Indians, today I will share why you would want to know more about this herb and how you can incorporate into your home apothecary.
This is Broadleaf Plantain
Though often confused with it, medicinal Plantain is not that “cousin of the bananas” which are in the Musaceae family. Medicinal Plantain in the Plantaginaceae family.
Identification
Before getting the amazing, and seriously I mean it, amazing qualities of Plantian, I believe knowing how to identify Plantain leaf is a great introduction to this herb because I have no doubt if you spend any time in nature in spring and summer you will begin to spot this hardy herb. It loves to grow on walk paths and places with foot traffic.
Take a look at the image above. Do you see how the leaf veins run parallel down the leaf? Like that of railroad tracks is how I have explained it to homeschool students in my herbal classes. This is the first very noticeable trait of the more than 200 species of plantain leaf.
Speaking of species, this leaf above, with its round oblong leaves is the most commonly found species of plantain. Plantago Major is commonly called Broadleaf plantain. Interestingly enough, as of yet I have never seen this growing on our farm. I have seen it across the street at my neighbors, but unfortunately, it hasn’t made its way to me.
On our acreage I have Narrow Leaf plantain. Though nearly equal medicinally, its appearance is different.
Here is a picture of some Narrow lead plantain I harvested from our land last summer. The difference is obvious by its name, Narrow Leaf, but as you can see those parallel leaf veins, are as obvious if not more so, than on the Broad Leaf Plantain.
What's It Good For?
I’m so glad you asked! Plantain is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits but specifically for skin and wound healing.
Plantain's ability to soothe skin tissue has led to its historical use in treating bites, stings, cuts, burns, and various skin conditions.
Plantain leaf infused into an oil and then made into a salve is one of the most widely sold herbal salves on the market. It was my first DIY salve many years ago.
When a salve isn't available it can be used as a spit poultice … and this is when my co-op kiddos all say “ewwwwwww".” Because of it's common appearance In landscapes and woodlands it's easy to find so if ever in a pinch and you need plantain for a bite, sting or wound the fresh leaf can be chewed and applied directly to the skin. If bandages are available wrap it up and let it do its wonders. If at home and the fresh leaves can be macerated in a blender or processor with a tad bit of water to make a poultice.
During the winter months when plantain is dormant, a salve is a perfect way to preserve all that goodness for dry, irritated skin conditions.
For Digestive Tract
The seeds of the tiny plantain flowers contain mucilaginous properties that have been used to sooth stomach issues, even with a history with ulcers. This would be consumed in the form of a tea.
I said from the beginning that you would be amazed by this herb but here's the thing, words are words. Me telling you how amazing the benefits of plantain for bites, stings, wounds and such just don't do justice to this wonderful herb. You have to experience it for yourself!
It's March here in SC and I am already spotting plantain on our property. Be sure if you harvest it from property other than your own that you don't get it from besides roadways, power lines or yards that may be sprayed with herbicides or other chemicals.
We live in this fallen world. It is full of pain, strife and “stings” yet our Creator has been so kind to give us so much provision to soothe our wounds. Here on the heels of remembering His resurrection, I am thankful for His blood that washed away my sins and everything He has provided in His love and mercy for His children.
Blessings, wholeness and love to you and yours,
JeriAnne