Plantain(Plantago major), also called plantain or broad-leaved plantain, is a close relative of the lanceolate plantain. For many of us, the common plantain is a common weed that grows on roads, wastelands and meadows, yet its properties make it known for its medicinal use. See how to take advantage of the preciousproperties of the common plantainand take full advantage of its potential.
Plantain - Plantago major
Fig. AnRo0002, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
The common plantain is a perennialwith a down-to-earth rosette of leaves, characterized by a long petiole and broadly ovoid leaf blade.It is this characteristic,broad leaves, which distinguish the common plantainagainst the background of other Plantago species. Common plantain forms an inflorescence in the form of a dense spike.In the summer we observe abundant plantain pollen , which is extremely annoying for allergy sufferers, because its pollen is a strong allergen.
common plantain - properties
Plantain has healing properties , including antibacterial or antioxidant, which result from the activity of its biologically active ingredients.
The medicinal raw material of the plantain are its leaves . They contain iridoid glycosides and flavonoids, tannins, numerous organic acids, mucilaginous substances and pectins. The plant is a good source of fibrin, called dietary fiber.
An interesting fact is thatfrom young plantain leaves you can prepare spring salads , containing a relatively large amount of vitamins. Plantain teas are also popular, and they can be bought from a herbal shop for PLN 6-10.
Plantain teascontain little free radicals compared to black tea, have antioxidant properties, but much weaker compared to green leaves that have not been processed.
Plantain - medicinal use
Plantain is a traditional raw material used from time immemorial until today in various countries, both in Europe and Asia.Fresh plantain leaves or their juice should be applied to insect bites and skin abrasions .
Plantain is useful in the treatmentof the vascular, respiratory, digestive and urinary systems, as well as in various skin diseases, eye diseases and cancer.
Plantain - Plantago major
Fig. AnRo0002, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Plantain can be used to prepare water extracts, infusions and decoctions of leaves or herbs. In many countries, aqueousplantain extracts are used to treat hypertension, diabetes or diarrhea .
Plantain leaves we obtainthe preparation is recommended in catarrhs and stomach and duodenal ulcers. In Polish folk medicine, plantain leaves are used to accelerate the formation of the epidermis and wound healing.You can make a decoction of plantain, which is usedin catarrh of the upper respiratory tract, cough, intestinal catarrh and diarrhea. To prepare the decoction, we need half a tablespoon of plantain leaves, which we pour over a glass of boiling water (about 3/4 cup) and cook for five minutes. Then leave the decoction for fifteen minutes and strain, then drink it while still warm.
MSc Eng. Joanna Białowąs
