Ever overlooked something awesome because it seemed too ordinary? Yep, we’re talking about the broadleaf plantain—often dismissed as “just a weed,” but secretly a super-plant!
Despite its long history as a valued herbal remedy, many people still pluck it from their yards and toss it aside without a second thought. From treating wounds to managing blood sugar, broadleaf plantain is a versatile herb that deserves a second look. In this post, we’ll share how to identify plantain herb, broadleaf plantain benefits and how to manage it in the yard and garden.
How to Identify Plantain Herb
The plantain leaf, from the Plantago genus which encompasses over 200 species, is most commonly represented by Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata for medicinal uses.
Originally from Europe and Asia, plantain plants are now ubiquitous in North America, often introduced by European settlers. These hardy plants are adaptable and can be found in a variety of environments such as lawns, fields, and even cracks in the pavement.
Foraging for plantain leaves is quite straightforward, provided you’re in an area free of pesticides. The plant is recognizable by its rosette formation and the distinctive, veined leaves which are either oblong or rounded. Although the flower stalks are a notable feature of the plantain, they are not always present.
Nutritionally, the youngest leaves of the plantain are soft and rich, suitable for consumption in raw dishes such as salads or cooked in soups. As the leaves mature, they become richer in medicinal compounds but also tougher and more pungent.
Historically, various cultures have utilized plantain leaves to treat a multitude of ailments, including respiratory issues, skin irritations, and infections. These uses are not just folkloric; modern research has validated the anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tissue-repairing properties of plantain leaves.
10 Plantain Benefits You Didn’t Know about
1. Nature’s Band-Aid
Plantago major, commonly known as the plantain leaf, exhibits a notable ability to promote the healing of skin. It was historically known as the “Healing Blade” in Scottish traditional medicine for its use in treating sword wounds, and Native American tribes utilized it for its soothing effects on stings, burns, rashes, and wounds.
Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar recommends the topical application of mashed plantain leaves for skin irritations, including insect bites, burns, or cuts, to facilitate healing. She also endorses its use with yarrow for bleeding control. Research corroborates the medicinal value of plantain leaf, particularly its antimicrobial activity and tissue repair properties. Allantoin, one of its active constituents, is recognized for promoting skin repair and new cell growth. The leaf’s anti-inflammatory effects further aid in alleviating skin conditions such as sunburn and acne.
2. Soothing Stomach Savior
Broadleaf plantain (Plantago major) has shown promise in treating stomach ulcers. A 2010 study found that plantain leaf extract reduced ulcer index, increased gastric juice pH, and inhibited the growth of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) in rats. A 2013 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 60 patients with peptic ulcers showed that plantain leaf extract significantly reduced ulcer size and severity compared to the placebo group after eight weeks of treatment. These studies support the use of plantain leaf as a natural remedy for managing stomach ulcers by reducing acidity, relieving pain, and inhibiting H. pylori growth.
3. Blood Sugar Stabilizer
Broadleaf plantain (Plantago major) has shown potential as a natural treatment for diabetes due to its hypoglycemic properties. A 2019 study found that plantain leaf extract significantly reduced blood glucose levels, improved insulin sensitivity, and increased liver glycogen content in diabetic rats . Another 2012 study revealed that the extract lowered blood glucose, increased insulin secretion, and improved pancreatic β-cell function in diabetic rats.
Plantain’s hypoglycemic effect is attributed to its rich content of flavonoids, sterols, and tannins, which regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity. The extract also enhances the mechanisms used by pancreatic cells to control glucose in the bloodstream.
4. Respiratory Relief
Plantain leaf has a long history of use in traditional medicine for alleviating respiratory issues, particularly coughs. The leaves are rich in mucilage, a substance that helps soothe, moisturize, and protect the throat and respiratory system. The German Commission E, a regulatory body for herbal medicines, has officially approved the use of plantain for treating coughs and upper respiratory infections.
Several studies have investigated the efficacy of plantain leaf in respiratory conditions. A Bulgarian study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 1993 found that plantain leaf extract demonstrated anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects on the respiratory tract, supporting its traditional use for treating coughs and bronchitis. Another Bulgarian study from 2002, published in the same journal, reported that a combination of plantain leaf and thyme extract was effective in reducing cough frequency and severity in patients with chronic bronchitis.
Furthermore, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted in Germany in 2014 investigated the effects of a plantain leaf extract on acute bronchitis. The study, involving 438 adult patients, found that the plantain leaf extract significantly reduced cough frequency and severity compared to the placebo group, with no reported adverse effects.
These studies, along with the approval from the German Commission E, provide strong evidence for the effectiveness of plantain leaf in managing respiratory conditions, particularly coughs and bronchitis.
5. Diarrhea Defender
Nobody enjoys dealing with diarrhea, but broadleaf plantain can help put an end to those unpleasant bathroom visits. Its tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids work together to reduce intestinal secretions and fluid accumulation in the gut, providing relief from the discomfort of diarrhea.
6. Infection Fighter
Thanks to its polysaccharide content, broadleaf plantain has protective properties against a range of bacteria and viruses. It can help fight off Streptococcus pneumoniae, the adenovirus responsible for the common cold, and even bacteria that cause skin infections and UTIs like Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli.
7. Anti-Aging Powerhouse
Broadleaf plantain is rich in antioxidants, including phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which can help prevent cellular damage from free radicals. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, broadleaf plantain may play a role in delaying the signs of premature aging.
8. Skin Soother
Broadleaf plantain’s anti-inflammatory properties extend beyond internal use. Its leaves can be used to create soothing dressings for various skin conditions, from eczema and psoriasis to insect bites and minor burns. The plantain’s healing powers can help calm inflammation and promote faster recovery.
9. Digestive Aid
If you’re dealing with occasional constipation or sluggish digestion, broadleaf plantain’s seeds can provide gentle relief. They contain laxative properties that can help stimulate bowel movements without causing discomfort or cramping.
10. Natural Detoxifier
Plantain leaf is unique among herbs because of its ability to draw out toxins from your skin and body. It was once used to draw out venom from snake bites and other animal and insect bites. Its drawing action can also be highly effective on stings, whether from an insect or a plant like stinging nettle.
You can even use a plantain poultice to draw out a deep splinter. Gladstar recommends soaking the area of skin in hot plantain tea, then keeping a poultice on until the sliver can be pulled out. (Gladstar, pg. 189)
When taken internally, plantain leaf has similar benefits by drawing toxicity out of your body. It’s considered a blood purifier and stimulates your liver to cleanse toxins out of your blood and body.
How To Make A Plantain Herb Poultice
- Pick a fresh plantain leaf and chew it.
- Place the chewed leaf directly on the affected area.
If chewing a leaf isn’t your thing, try this:
- Put fresh plantain leaves and a small amount of water in a food processor.
- Blend until it forms a thick paste.
- Scoop the paste onto a piece of cheesecloth.
- Fold or tie the cheesecloth to seal the paste inside.
- Place the poultice on the affected area for up to two hours.
- Secure it with medical tape if needed.
- Replace with a fresh poultice if desired.
Plantain Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2-3 tbsp fresh plantain leaves (rinsed) or 2 tsp dried plantain leaves
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
- Pour boiling water over the leaves.
- Let it infuse for 10 minutes.
- Strain out the leaves.
- Sweeten with honey, maple syrup, or any sweetener (optional).
Plantain Tincture Recipe
This tincture is helpful for weeping poison ivy and as an astringent for acne.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup freshly chopped/ground plantain leaves or 1/4 – 1/3 cup dried plantain leaves
- 1 cup 151-160 proof alcohol (75.5% – 80% alcohol by volume)
Instructions:
- Place the plantain in a clean 16 oz mason jar.
- Pour the alcohol over the leaves, leaving at least 1/2 inch of alcohol covering the top.
- Seal the jar and shake well.
- Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks.
- Strain out the plantain and label the tincture.
For dried plantain, you can use 40% – 50% alcohol by volume (80-90 proof vodka).
Usage: Plantain is extremely safe to use in high or frequent doses if necessary and may be taken by the young or old, whilst pregnant or during breastfeeding with confidence.
Plantain Salad & Stew
Plantain leaves can also be added to salads for a nutritional boost. Use young, tender leaves rather than bigger, fibrous leaves. Older leaves are best used in stews or to make tea.
Conclusion
Don’t let broadleaf plantain’s humble appearance fool you. This unassuming weed is a veritable treasure trove of medicinal properties, offering a natural solution for a wide range of ailments. From wound healing to blood sugar management, broadleaf plantain is a versatile herb that deserves a place in your natural medicine cabinet. So the next time you spot it growing in your yard, consider harvesting a few leaves and experiencing the power of this remarkable plant for yourself.
