|  | Bites Stings | Insect Bites

Plantains Used to Soothe Insect Bites

People have been benefitting from the medicinal properties of the Plantain herb for centuries. Europeans were aware of its healing and anti-inflammatory qualities for centuries before introducing the common weed to North America during Colonial times. Native Americans quickly realized the Plantain's effectiveness in treating insect and snakebites, as well as other wounds and skin conditions.

  1. An Abundant Herb

    • Plantain is recognizable in gardens, meadows and lawns by its long, narrowly ribbed basal leaves and small whitish-colored flowers. In his collection of 17th-century herbal remedies, Nicolas Culpeper claimed that the plant grew in such great abundance along pathways that it was easily recognizable. In truth, the Plantain is wind pollinated, grows aggressively and has seeds that are hardy enough to survive ingestion by birds or other small animals.

    Using the Leaves

    • Herbalists recommend covering bites or stings with wet-lacerated leaves to draw out the Plantain's beneficial ingredients. Once the wet leaf dries, replace it with a newly cut leaf. This process can be completed three to four times daily. The Pennsylvania Dutch used juice from the Plantain to cure insect bites and to help to heal sores, and also placed dried leaves with linens to prevent insects from nesting there.

    Making a Lotion

    • With little effort, the leaves of the plantain may be made into a soothing lotion in a few short weeks. Simply shred leaves into a small container and cover with glycerin. Leave the preparation in a cool, dark area for approximately two weeks. The mixture can then be applied directly to the affected area to soothe insect bites and stings as well as other types of skin irritations, bruises and wounds.

    Precautions

    • As with any prescription or herbal remedy, consider possible side effects. The juice or tea of the Plantain, taken for the plant's anti-inflammatory and anti-diarrhea properties, should not be ingested by those who take lithium or carbamazepine drugs, as these decrease the drug's effectiveness. Possible side effects include allergic reactions, chest congestion, sneezing and watery eyes, and possible digestion complications as a result of ingestion of seed husks. Proper dosage should be carefully respected.

Insect Bites - Related Articles