Plantain
Plantain (Plantago major and P. lanceolata) is a common broadleaf plant found in yards and pathways worldwide. Despite being viewed as a weed, plantain has been one of humanity's most useful medicinal plants for millennia. It's often called 'nature's bandage' for its wound-healing properties.
Benefits
Accelerates wound healing and stops bleeding
Draws out splinters, venom, and infection
Soothes insect bites and skin irritations
Calms coughs and soothes irritated lungs
Supports healthy digestion and gut repair
The Science & Wisdom Behind Plantain
Scientific Evidence
Plantain contains allantoin, which promotes cell growth and wound healing, plus aucubin and catalpol, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Studies show it increases the rate of wound contraction and epithelialization while reducing bacterial counts in wounds.
Traditional Use
Native Americans called plantain 'white man's footprint' as it spread with European colonization. In European folk medicine, it was a primary remedy for snake and insect bites. Anglo-Saxon healers listed it as one of nine sacred herbs.
Anecdotal Reports
Wilderness guides and outdoor educators regularly report that fresh plantain leaves, chewed into a poultice and applied to bee stings or splinters, provide almost immediate relief and significantly reduce swelling and pain.
How to Use Plantain
General Usage
Plantain is used fresh as a poultice, dried in teas and infusions, or prepared as salves, oils, and tinctures. Both the broad-leaf (P. major) and narrow-leaf (P. lanceolata) varieties have similar properties.
Common Uses For:
Recipe
Plantain First Aid Poultice: Chew (or finely chop) fresh plantain leaves until mushy, apply directly to wounds, bites, or splinters. Secure with a bandage if needed.
Shop Plantain Products
Find high-quality Plantain products from trusted sellers on Amazon.
We recommend carefully reviewing product details and customer reviews before purchasing any herbal or natural remedy.
Shop on Amazon