Plantain Remedies

Plantain is a small herbaceous plant often regarded as a weed, which grows freely nearly everywhere in the world. The leaves of the plant have been used as medicine for centuries by Native Americans and other indigenous peoples. Although there is a lack of scientific evidence for many of its reported benefits, herbalists still believe it is effective in treating a variety of ailments. The mucilage and tannins present in the leaves have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it ideal for treating wounds.

Fresh Leaves

• The fresh leaves of plantain have a soothing and healing effect on external sores and wounds. Pick the leaves and bruise or mash them, then apply directly to the affected area. This remedy will stop excessive bleeding and heal insect bites, stings, rashes, inflammation, infections, boils, diaper rash, ulcers and sores of all kinds.

Plantain Poultice

• In a pinch, the fresh leaves of the plant will suffice to ease the pain of insect stings and external wounds. However, if you have a bit more time, you can make a poultice from the leaves which may be more effective and will require less frequent application. Place several fresh leaves in a blender or food processor and blend. Add enough water to make a thick paste, and process until smooth. Spread the mixture onto a piece of clean cotton, linen or muslin cloth, and wrap the wound. Allow the poultice to remain in place for 24 hours, and then replace with a fresh preparation.

Soothing Plantain Ice

• If you have any excess plantain mixture left over from making a poultice, it may be placed into a clean ice-cube tray and frozen. Or, you may simply want to harvest leaves in the spring and prepare a large batch for freezing. Once frozen, store the plantain ice cubes in zipper lock freezer bags. Remove one any time a wound, bite or sting warrants its use. Plantain tea may also be prepared and frozen in cubes and used in the same manner.

Plantain Leaf Tea for External Use

• For burns and scalds, plantain leaf tea is an effective remedy. It may also be used for sensitive or slow-healing external wounds, dermatitis and eczema. Add approximately one tablespoon of fresh leaves or ½ teaspoon dried leaves to one cup of boiling water. Allow the mixture to steep for 10 to 15 minutes, and then strain out the leaves. Once the liquid has cooled completely, carefully apply the tea directly to the burn or wound and cover with bandages. Clean cotton cloth may be soaked in the tea and applied to the wound as a poultice, if desired.

Plantain Leaf Tea for Internal Use

• Plantain remedies may be used for internal complaints, including diarrhea, bowel and kidney problems, stomach ulcers, excessive menstruation, urinary tract infections, bladder infections and even bedwetting. It is also used for treating chronic bronchitis, coughs, and other upper respiratory problems. Germany's Commission E, equivalent to the American Food and Drug Administration, has approved the remedy for use in treating these conditions. Drink three to four cups of plantain tea daily for the best results. If seven days have passed and the symptoms are still evident, consult a medical professional. Although plantain can aid the healing process for many internal and external wounds, it is not a cure-all.