Found throughout the Italian countryside, this plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Plantain , whose scientific name is Plantago major , is a very useful plant with a wealth of health benefits: below we list a few.
Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as calcium, Native Americans used plantain to soothe insect bites, blocking the venom and alleviating rashes. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, plantain can also be used as a natural mouthwash.
In addition to being antimicrobial and antibacterial, plantain has antitoxic and anti-inflammatory properties and can relieve burns, itching, wounds, and pain. Some studies are investigating its ability to regulate blood sugar.
Benefits of plantain
- Lowers cholesterol;
- it is helpful in the treatment of diabetes;
- relieves the symptoms of hemorrhoids;
- it is useful in case of irritable bowel syndrome;
- calms the intestines in case of constipation or diarrhea;
- relieves kidney and gallbladder problems;
- relieves indigestion and ulcers.
Plantain is also excellent for relieving external inflammation caused by insect bites, rashes, eczema, psoriasis, sunburn, cuts, and varicose veins.
Plantain leaves can be applied directly to the skin to relieve skin problems. Alternatively, a plantain infusion is excellent for pain relief and digestive problems.
Plantain is available in herbalist shops in the form of essential oil, tincture, and infusion.
Plantain leaves have astringent properties and can be used to relieve inflammation such as hemorrhoids and respiratory conditions. Fresh leaves contain mucilatannin, a compound that can speed wound healing and stop bleeding.