Plantain is a perennial herb widely distributed throughout Europe and Asia. In India, it is found growing in the Western Himalayas from Kashmir to Simla. Of the 250 known species of Plantago worldwide, P. lanceolata and P. major are among those with the widest geographic ranges. The material of commerce is obtained mainly from cultivation in Bulgaria, Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland, the former Yugoslavia, and the former U.S.S.R.

In Germany, plantain is one of the most important medicinal plants obtained from cultivation. It is cultivated on "set-aside areas" in accordance with EEC Regulation 1765/92 in the state of Bayern.

Made into a salve it is very good for healing cuts, burns, insect bites, stings, and other skin problems. It contains epidermal growth factor which helps skin heal and grow. Good internally for all inflammations. It helps stop dandruff, hemorrhoids, laryngitis. The medicine works attraction-mitigating, astringentent and antibacterially.

All of the plantains contain a high level of tannin and the seeds have a high mucilage content. The astringent property of the leaves due to the tannin makes the leaves useful for all types of sores on the skin, cuts, bites and various inflammations. A tea brewed with the seeds is a treatment for diarrhea and dysentery and for bleeding in the mouth or other mucous membranes. Plantain tea is also indicated for phlegm congestion. Human studies have found positive results in the treatment of chronic bronchitis of a spastic or non-spastic nature with plantain.

DISCLAIMER: This page is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for accurate diagnosis and treatment by a qualified health care professional. The author is neither a chemist nor an herbalist and has had no medical training whatsoever. The content herein is the product of research, not practical experience.