plantain weed (leaf)

Plantago major L

Properties & application

Plantain weed has emollient and moistening properties and is often used as a base in balms, herbal oils and natural skin care creams because of this. The plant is rich in beta carotene (vitamin A), calcium and ascorbic acid (vitamin C), and has both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties - it helps nourish by soothing and calming itchy, inflamed, and irritated skin. Plantain oil helps revitalize tired skin and is often found in anti-aging treatments.

Plantain is well known for its effective drawing properties as it draws out impurities and it is very useful for pulling out bee stings, splinters and even lumps and bumps when used fresh as a poultice.

history

Plantain weed, as the name suggests, is a weed (however this does not mean it is not useful). It is very common and frequently pulled out as a nuisance and can be found all over the world. Here in Guatemala it is locally known as ‘Lantan’ and used in teas for stomach complaints and infections.

local sourcing

Our plantain leaf comes directly from our garden.

products with plantain leaf