Plantain Leaf

Plantain Leaf

Latin name: Plantago major 

Health Benefits of Plantain Leaf

Plantain is a wonderful “First Aid” plant that can usually be found close by no matter what your location.  It is a very common weed found almost everywhere.  Plantain makes a delicious iced tea and yet is usually used externally to treat skin conditions.  Health benefits include: 

• Is known for its wonderful expectorant properties. It is great to use if you have congestion from colds, flu, allergies, or other respiratory illnesses.
• Is an astringent that is good for skin ailments such as eczema and psoriasis.
• Has been acclaimed for its ability to relieve bee stings and insect or spider bites. It can also be helpful with rashes from poison ivy. This is due to its ability to draw poisons out of the body. It has an amazing “drawing” power that is really helpful to stop pain and inflammation from these ailments, and also can help relieve itching.
• Known as a great contact healer. It is essential for emergency situations to stop bleeding, itching, to reduce inflammation, and to kill infection. It is a must have in the case of physical injury. Every home preparedness kit should contain plantain.
• Research has confirmed the anti-inflammatory properties of Plantain, and has discovered elements that protect the body against tumors and help to resist damage to the liver form chemotherapy drugs.
• Treats blood poisoning.
• Treats inflammation of the digestive tract and liver sluggishness.
• Used as a laxative. 

How to Use Plantain Leaf

• Can be used internally in tincture or tea combinations. It makes a very pleasant tasting iced tea.
• Can be used externally in a poultice.
• If you are in the wild, and have an emergency sting or bite, just find a bit of plantain, chew the leaves to bruise, and apply immediately.