Plantain

There are many different species of plantain, of particular importance in our latitudes are ribwort plantain and broadleaf plantain.

In Central Europe, this plant is widespread in meadows and roadsides and can grow up to 50 cm high.

The leaf of the plantain resembles the sole of a human foot, Latin name: Plantago from planta = sole of the foot. It is interesting to note that the Indians gave the plantain its name: wherever Europeans appeared, the plantain spread, hence the name "white man's footprints".

Both leaves and roots of the Indian plantain are used as medicine. The following effects are known: stimulating mucous membranes, expectorant, blood coagulant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial. see also under Indian psyllium, Plantaginis ovata semen