Plantain (Plantago major and P. Lanceolata)

Parts used: Sseds, roots, leaves

Benefits: Plantain is a common weed across almost all of North America and is a highly nutritional food.  It is one of the best poultice herbs and is often referred to as the “green bandage.”  It’s among the best herbs for treating blood poisoning, used externally on the infected area and internally as a tea.  Plantain seeds are a rich in mucilage and are often used in laxative blends for their soothing action.  In fact, psyllium seeds used in Metamucil are produced from a Plantago species.  This herb is also very effective for treating liver sluggishness and inflammation of the digestive tract.

Suggested uses: Plantain is quite mild in flavor and makes a nice infusion.  It can also be powdered and added to food or used as an herbal first-aid powder for infections.  Or make a poultice with the fresh leaves to soothe irritation and infection.