Plantain is the name of a plant known for its bright green color. It doesn’t grow high and has specific flat, oval leaves with short stems. It comes with leaves that can grow very big – up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide.
In many cases, plantains have flower stock without leaves during summer and fall. What is interesting is that plantain stalks can reach 10 inches in some cases. Plantain can be found all over our planet – America, Asia, Africa, Europe and Australia.
According to some records, people have used this plant as a remedy for hundreds of years. Plantain is loaded with essential minerals like beta carotene and calcium for example. In addition, it has a good amount of ascorbic acid as well as vitamin K too.
Plantain comes with a myriad of healing and preventive properties like anti-histamine, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, , astringent, diuretic, styptic, expectorant and demulcent. People can consume fresh or raw leaves of plantain or simply put in different kinds of salads.
Since this plant provides powerful anti-inflammatory effects it can serve as a great pain killer and it can also help people get rid of itching caused by different skin issues.
Its leaves are great for bug bites, minor sores, rashes, redness and boils that come as a result of a contact with poison ivy. Some people say that plantain is beneficial in cases of coughs and mild bronchitis when it is used in the form of syrup, tincture or tea.
Plantain leaves and seeds are beneficial too and they are often utilized as an antiseptic, antidote, astringent, cardiac, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, haemostatic, antitussive, demulcent, laxative, expectorant, poultice, vermufage, refrigerant, ophthalmic and antibacterial agent.
Plantain Leaves and Issues with The Respiratory System
Two separate clinical trials were conducted in Bulgaria not while ago. These trials have confirmed that plantain is extremely efficient when it comes to chronic bronchitis. This plant is a strong demulcent like glycerin and pectin, two ingredients frequently found in commercial throat drops and cough syrups. It turns out that, demulcents act in a specific way – they can ease minor irritations and uneasiness by producing a soothing layer on top of the mucous membrane facing these problems.Enhances Bone and Eye Health and Boosts The Immune System
It turns out that plantain leaves come with high amounts of vitamin C and as you are probably aware, vitamin C is vital for a fully working immunity. In addition, these leaves are loaded with vitamin A which is good for the vision and keeps us safe from macular degeneration, a health issue that can lead to blindness. The fact is that plantain can aid people dealing with a myriad of health issues. Even some old, but still relevant books like the one created by Dr. Finley Ellingwood, Medical Doctor, about 100 years ago (The American Materia Medica, Therapeutics and Pharmacology) claim that this plant is extremely efficient and helpful in cases of insect bites and rashes, diarrhea, injuries, blood diseases, mercury poisoning, glandular diseases and different disorders in women. Some experts claim that plantain is a universal cure and it is able to treat literally any condition, starting from minor digestive issues and menstrual problems to skin issues and arthritis. Plantain can be used in salads, stir fries or you can chew it raw. This wild veggie can enhance your health in a short period of time.Herbal Tea Based on Plantain
Ingredients:
- One tablespoon of fresh/dry plantain (including leaves, seed and root);
- One cup of boiling tap water;
- One teaspoon of Manuka honey (optional).
Instructions:
Put the plantain in the boiling tap water and wait for ten minutes while it is steeping. Next, strain the mixture well. In case you want to make the taste sweeter just use Manuka honey. Via Healthline
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