My Journey with Herbs – Plantain

I have to tell you that this Journey with Herbs is getting more interesting by the day and the Plantain is an amazing plant! Unless you’ve studied herbs yourself, you’re not going to believe all the uses for this weed herb! But I’m going to help you identify it as well as list its medicinal uses.

Let’s get to it shall we? First up is my still life photo with the plantain. I know you’ve seen these weeds herbs growing in your own yard, right?

Let me show you a close-up taken directly in the yard. Better? Now, do you see the green spikes growing out of the plant? Those will be the seeds. You can actually use every part of this plant…leaves, roots, and seeds.

You can tell a plantain by picking one of the leaves. If you gently tear the leaf, it usually will leave what looks like white threads protruding from part of the leaf. I have ALWAYS dug these things out of my flower beds because they were nothing more than weeds!! WRONG!! They will have a dedicated place in my garden next year!

Let me tell you just a bit of what this wonder herb can be and IS used for. Studies have been done and I have almost a whole page of references (I won’t post them here).

• The seeds can be used as a thickener or binding agent in recipes, and could be substituted for eggs in baked goods.
• The demulcent and anti-inflammatory properties of both the seed and leaves helps soothe digestive issues related to irritated mucous membranes in the gastrointestinal tract such as ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation
• It is a remedy for bites, stings, cuts, and scrapes. It can also soothe and cool the pain, itching, or burning of poison ivy, nettles, or sunburn.

Plantain can do so much more! It is an herb worth researching. But PLEASE, if you do begin to research herbs, PLEASE, make sure you’re reading from a reputable source. I am only giving you bits and pieces just to give you an idea of what some of these beauties can do for your body. If you’re sincere about learning, why not check out one of the resources I’ve listed for you below.

Resources: 

 The Herbal Academy

The Herbarium 

You can also Preview a Lesson from the Introductory Herbal Course.

That’s it for today. I hope you enjoyed today’s journey with me and I’ll be back real soon with another wonderful weed herb!

Hugs and Have A Creative Day!!

Cheryl

Disclaimer:

Nothing provided by Cheryl McCain and/or Cheryl McCain Photography should be considered medical advice. The information provided here
is for informational purposes only. Always consult a botanically knowledgeable medical practitioner before starting any course of  treatment, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, on any medications, or have any health problems. Cheryl McCain and/or Cheryl McCain Photography is not liable for any action or inaction you take based on the information provided here.