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Plantain [Plantago lanceolata]

Plantain contains anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-allergy, and wound healing abilities.

Many herbalists and survivalists are familiar with the use of plantain leaf for first aid in the field, where fresh plantain is chewed and applied directly to the skin to ease stings, bites, and minor burns or cuts.

It is also an excellent way to draw out splinters, tiny shards of glass, or any other unwelcome debris.

The plant can also be used internally to both draw out heat and support the healing of damaged tissues. Because of its inflammation-modulating properties, plantain also works well to soothe respiratory allergies and asthma, calm gastrointestinal inflammation, and, because of its demulcent properties, plantain is also useful for helping to ease diarrhea.

 

Stainton’s Natural History of the Tineina (1855–1873)