Plantain Leaf is known by several common names, including Common plantain, Greater plantain, as well as Soldier's herb. The leaves of this plant are deeply veined, and the plant itself is an herbaceous perennial. It reseeds very easily and can be invasive in some areas. It should not be confused with the banana-looking plantain, which is a plant in the Musa genus.
Botanical Name: Plantago lanceolata
Common Names: Waybread, round-leaved plantain, Englishman's foot, common plantain
Plantain loves disturbance. It is a common weed of cultivated pastures, cracks in sidewalks, back yard gardens, and any place that experiences regular activity. Plantain has been used for centuries as an edible food and for its beneficial properties. According to western folklore, the leaf was chewed and placed on the skin for its ability to draw a splinter, or similar nuisance, out.
In traditional western herbalism, plantain leaves have been infused with a multitude of herbs. Plantain can be valuable externally and is often found in skin care products. The young, spring leaves can be eaten as food in salads.
Plantain leaf is commonly steeped as tea and combined with other botanicals in herbal infusions. Can also be used as an ingredient in topical skin care recipes.
Want to learn how to make a refreshing herbal infusion with plantain?
Precautions:
No known precautions. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
All teas and herbs are sold per ounce.
