Plantain

What is Plantain?

Plantain can refer to a number of herbal plants of the genus Plantago. Member species are found all over the world and have been used for centuries as medicinal plants for a number of ailments including allergies.

Properties of Plantain

Antibacterial, astringent, reduces irritation, detoxification, expectorant, analgesic, anti- inflammatory, healing, purifying, decongestant, digestive, diuretic, tonic, sedative, and laxative.

Plantain's Medicinal Uses

Plantain can be used as a topically to soothe skin conditions such as skin infections, insect bites, acne, boils, wounds, irritation, allergies, and more.

It can also be made into a tea to treat the body internally, including the mucous membranes of the digestive and respiratory system. This treats diarrhea, inflammation of mucous membranes, rhinitis, sinusitis, cold, flu, heartburn, phlegm, dysentery, gastritis, gingivitis, constipation, gastric ulcers, and urinary tract infections, among others.

How to Prepare the Plantain

Tea: 4 tea spoons of plantain tea to 1 liter of water. Boil the water and add the plantain tea into it. Cover the container and let it brew for 15 minutes. Strain the tea out before drinking

Topical use: Fresh leaves can be ground using a mortar and pestle or with a food processor. Apply to the area of skin that needs treatment such as a rash or wound 3 or 4 times a day

Side Effects of Plantain

Plantain may cause drowsiness, and due to its diuretic effects, dehydration.

Contraindications of Plantain

Do not use this plant if you are pregnant or plan on being pregnant as it can affect the lining of the uterus. If you are taking anti clotting drugs, plantain may interfere with their function. People with impaired heart function should also not take plantain.