Plantago lanceolata
The genus Plantago contains the species Plantago lanceolata, also known as narrow leaf plantain or English plantain. In general, plantains are divided into two categories, narrow leaf and broad leaf.
The broad leaf plantain produces leaves that are around 2.5 cm (1 inch) wide and have parallel veins that expand out at the leaf's broadest region. The plantain leaves will be clustered extremely close to the ground. The plantain flowers are borne on an elongated spike that arises from the leaf cluster's centre.
With contrast, thin leaf plantain has lance-shaped leaves that can reach a maximum length of 12 centimetres (five inches) and a width of just 2.5 centimetres (one inch), and are coated in hairs. The leaf margins are narrow and lance-shaped. The flowers of this plantain cultivar are modest and unimpressive.
It has been discovered that both species of plantains have large concentrations of tannins and their seeds are rich in mucilage. Tannins add to the astringent characteristics of the leaves, making them useful for healing many sorts of skin lesions, wounds, and even inflammations. To cure diarrhoea and dysentery, the seeds are used to prepare a tea that is consumed orally. This herbal tea is also useful for treating mouth and other mucous membrane bleeding.
The leaves are also applied topically. Crush plantain leaves and apply them to wounds to stop bleeding. A decoction or infusion made from the leaves is utilised as an eye rinse and to treat eye infections. The entire plantain plant is frequently used to prepare a drink for the treatment of nausea. This tea is often used as a mouthwash to treat canker sores (aphthae).
The mucilage found in plantain seeds is an excellent thickening that is utilised in a variety of cosmetics, including lotions and hair wave sets. Additionally, ice cream manufacturers utilise it as a stabiliser.
Plantain is a remarkable plant that may be used to cure a range of skin conditions, such as bruises, cuts, burns, wounds, rashes, mosquito bites, blisters, swellings, sprains, eczema, poison ivy/oak, cracked lips, and diaper rash. Plantain is renowned for its ability to extract venom from snake bites, bee stings, spider bites, thorns, and splinters. This plant may help reduce the likelihood of getting scars from scratches and deep cuts. Pick a few plantain leaves, mash or chew them to release their juice, and then apply the mashed or chewed plantain leaves to the bite or sting. Keep the mashed leaves in situ for a period of time so they can absorb the poison.
It is important to note that Native Americans have utilised plantains as a miraculous plant for numerous millennia. In reality, the plant's medicinal virtues and applications are extensive. This plant's anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities are frequently utilised. Many argue that the antibacterial and antiseptic properties of plantain are comparable to those of hydrocortisone. It has been demonstrated that plantain's powerful antibacterial qualities can disinfect small incisions. Moreover, application of the plant's leaves is thought to hasten the regeneration of new cells because the plant contains allantoin, a recognised cell proliferator.
Examining the plantain's many elements helps to partially explain the numerous health benefits this plant provides. Plantain's phenylethanoids are highly effective at healing wounds. These naturally occurring compounds are powerful antioxidants and antimicrobials. They function to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth.
In addition to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, plantains also contain iridoids that promote wound healing. This plant contains flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants. In addition, they inhibit both inflammation and hyaluronidase. Thus, they exhibit exceptional anti-aging capabilities.
These plants also include a variety of vital minerals, including as sodium, calcium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. In addition, they contain a high concentration of tannins, which are not only antibacterial but also anti-inflammatory and astringent.
In addition to helping to strengthen the immune system, plantain polysaccharides have moisturising and calming qualities. Similarly, plantain contains saponins with antibacterial effects that inhibit bacterial development. Saponins are also hemostatic and assist in stopping bleeding. Additionally, plantain plants contain several vitamins, including vitamins A, C, and K.
Given the significant therapeutic benefits and many uses of the plantain plant, it is rather surprising that this plant has not been utilised well, particularly for skin care. In reality, skin care product producers should have incorporated it as a primary element in their products.
