Plantain Leaf

Broadleaf plantain (Plantago major)

20G

Plantain leaf not the banana! I dont know why it's the same name, but this grubby little plant is found everywhere across the world, in cracks and crevices in sidwalks, public parks, parking lots, and is considered an invasive weed. But it actually has incredible healing properties! It is a gentle antimicrobial plant, its leaves contain allantoin and antioxidants, in a salve, skin wash or poultice will help heal wounds, insect bites, rash, skin irritations, minor burns, cuts, blisters and drawing out splinters. Taken as a tea, plantain may ease coughs, clear mucus, and calm inflamed airways.

Plantain Tea Recipe:

Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried broadleaf plantain leaves in 1 cup of hot water for 5–10 minutes. Strain and sip to support respiratory health or apply cooled tea as a skin wash

For an easy salve put 5G in 1/4 cup coconut oil, let sit for a week in a dark place. Or double boil on low for 6 hours. Strain and refrigerate. 

Super quick poultice for immediate relief:

Chop an clean leaf or two from a fresh plant, chew and mascicate it for a minute and spread the mush on a rash, bug bite or sting, minor surface burn or cut. You can put the paste in some cheesecloth and leave it sitting on the wound. If you gave sensitive skin do a test patch on healthy skin.