Plantain: what it is used for and how to use it

Greater plantain is a plant of the Plantaginaceae family, widely used to prepare home remedies to treat flu, common cold and inflammations in the throat, uterus and intestine.

Its scientific name is Plantago major, the parts used are its leaves and seeds, and can be purchased in health food stores, some pharmacies and some municipal markets. The main active compounds it possesses are iridoids, mucilages and flavonoids. 

Plantain: what it is used for and how to use it

What it is used for

The leaves of greater plantain can be used orally in case of respiratory diseases and respiratory tract infections, and can be used to prepare a tea, which liquefies bronchial secretions, relieves cough and can be used for gargling to treat respiratory conditions mouth and throat as thrush, pharyngitis, tonsillitis and laryngitis.

The tea can also be used to relieve urinary tract infections, urine leakage during sleep, liver problems, heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea and as a diuretic to reduce fluid retention.

In addition, it can also be used on the skin to heal wounds, as it aids in healing and blood clotting, and to treat boils.

Learn what are the most common symptoms of boil.

What are its properties

The properties of greater plantain include antibacterial, astringent, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, expectorant, depurative, diuretic, antispasmodic, decongestant and healing action. Its seeds have laxative properties.

How to use

Greater plantain can be used in different ways, being able to prepare a tea with its leaves, it is also possible to prepare a poultice, to season some foods or its seeds can be ingested. 

Greater plantain tea

Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 grams of plantain leaves;
  • 240 mL of water.

    • Mode of preparation

    Place the leaves in 1 cup of boiling water, let stand for 3 minutes. Drink warm 3 to 4 times per day.

    Possible side effects

    The main side effects of plantain major include drowsiness, intestinal colic, and dehydration. 

    Contraindications

    Greater plantain is contraindicated in pregnant women, nursing women and individuals with heart problems.

    It is necessary to consult a doctor in the case of diabetic individuals, since its seeds could lower blood sugar, potentially causing hypoglycemia.

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