Plantain Leaf Relieves Stings, Bites and Rashes
Plantain (officially Plantago major) is a weed commonly found in the wild and (much to suburbanites’ chagrin) the lawns of almost everyone living in temperate climates. Just think, here’s a weed probably found in your yard that you used to kill, and now, after reading this, you will want to harvest! There are over 200 species. You can find it quickly when you see the green, nubby spikes, which stick up out of a cluster of round leaves.
Plantain was used in time past to heal the bites of “mad dogs, snakes, and venomous creatures.” On this side of the ocean, Native Americans learned to use plantain in the same way. In colonial America a slave would be freed if he taught them how to use plantain to cure rattlesnake bite. An article written in 1710 listing the benefits of plantain leaf made it sound like the proverbial medicine man’s elixir, Doctor Magic’s Cure for everything!
Take a few fresh leaves, crush or chew them, and see how quickly they stop the bleeding of an open wound or the pain and inflammation of bites and stings. Plantain can also be used to treat minor cuts and a wide range of skin disorders, including dandruff, eczema, or sunburn. Plantain is like a First Aid kit growing in the lawn! A cup of strong Plantain tea will calm indigestion, and the leaf will relieve the pain of a toothache. In Europe they endorse plantain as a treatment for bronchitis, sore throat, and cold symptoms.
In more recent times, plantain has been acclaimed for its ability to relieve bee stings, insect and spider bites, and rashes from an unfortunate encounter with Poison Ivy or Stinging Nettles. Dr. Christopher called Plantain, Jewelweed, and Hound’s Tongue “Nature’s erasers.” He said, “Stand anywhere within sight of Poison Ivy, and look about. You will always see at least one of these plants, placed by the hand of God to come to your aid, if you should need it.” Plantain will protect the body against tumors and help resist damage to the liver from chemotherapy drugs. The fiber and mucilage from the seeds of the Plantago species are the primary fiber supplement for millions of people around the world.
Plantain contains allantoin, an anti-inflammatory substance that kills germs, speeds wound healing, and stimulates the growth of new skin cells. It is listed as an active ingredient in many commercial cosmetic creams and lotions.
Plantain is a contact healer. As such, it is essential for emergency situations to stop itching and/or bleeding, reduce inflammation, kill infection, etc. Basically, along with cayenne, and comfrey, plantain is a must in case of physical injuries.
A simple ointment, made with an olive oil, extract of fresh plantain, and a little beeswax makes a very effective treatment for skin ailments, including diaper rash. To soothe bug bites, eczema, poison ivy, or other minor skin irritations, rub fresh plantain leaves on the affected area. You can also make a soothing poultice of fresh, mashed leaves and a little cool water. Apply it to sunburns. Plantain is also available as a supplement in liquid extract and capsule form. The usual dosage for bronchial symptoms is one teaspoon of liquid extract three times a day, or up to 6,000 milligrams in capsules per day.
There have been no toxic reactions reported with the use of plantain though consuming extremely large amounts could cause diarrhea, skin rash, or other allergic reaction. It is very critical to store plantain in a dark, dry, and cool place. Refrigeration or freezing is highly recommended, but not necessary. By doing this you will delay the loss of its highly valued nutritional and medicinal properties.