MEDICINAL PLANTS

Plantain is a herbaceous plant less lively belonging to the family Plantaginaceae, which includes not more than 450 species, almost all belonging to the genus Plantago. Some species of this group of plants are characterized by a high content of mucilage in the seeds, and a glycoside called aucubin. This plant is common in the Peninsula, making it easier to find in more or less wet areas in meadows, roadsides, ruins and mountain trails. Plantain is widespread throughout Europe and Asia. The pharmaceutical industry is often supplying orchard crops or in the countryside.

FLOWERING

Plantain flowers in spring until late summer. Especially interested in their leaves, although active ingredients can be found at the root and seeds, so the whole plant is useful from a medical standpoint. The leaves are harvested in summer and are dried in thin layers, in the shade or in a dryer, it is important not to darken with drying as it loses some of its properties.

APPLICATIONS

Both the leaves and the root and the seeds are the glycosides we mentioned before, that is, the aucubin. Moreover, they also appear in seed mucilage, pectin, tannins and some sugars. In the flowering season is high in ascorbic acid. The plant has significant anti-inflammatory, antitussive, soothing and healing. No one knows for sure why this is the power plant to heal wounds, it does not find any related active, but the fact is that it is very effective in ulcers, insect bites and wounds in general. Also, the lesser plantain is a good remedy for treating diseases of the upper respiratory tract, as it not only promotes the expectoration but also protects the mucous membranes.

ADMINISTRATION

Decoction. In 1 / 2 liter of boiled water 15 gr. Previously dried leaves, after 20 minutes remove from the heat, filtered and allowed to cool slightly. It's good to take a glass fasting and purifying.
Macerado. Between 40 and 50 gr. Plant in a liter of water, boil one minute and left to macerate for 12 hours. They drink during the day in small vessels.
Poultice. Obtained from fresh leaves. It collects a handful or so great, are crushed and applied directly to wounds or sores.
Infusion for external use. You can make an infusion of the plant that can be added others, such as sweet clover or tile. This mixture can be applied as compresses, mouthwash, eye baths, gargles, etc..

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Plantaginaceae
HABITAT: Uncultivated roadside
FLOWERING: Spring and summer
PART USED: Leaves and whole plant
CASTILIAN: Siete nervios
CATALAN: Cinc-nervis
BASQUE: Borzain- belarr
GALICIAN: Lingua de ovella

USES

Balsamic Strong, Moderate inflammatory, Healing Moderate.