Plantago is ubiquitous in landscapes all over the world. It encompasses at least 200 different varieties that grow in a range of climates. In North America it grows abundantly around footpaths, patios, herbicide-free lawns, and pretty much everywhere there is disturbed earth and abundant sunshine. It is edible and I like to use the young seed stalks in stir-fry dishes. The seed husks contain psyllium and can benefit digestive difficulties. The leaves have a wide variety of medicinal properties, and I use them on stings. When stung by a bee I locate some plantain, chew the leaves, and apply them as a poultice. It relieves the stinging and itching quite quickly!
Plantago major, or broad-leaved plantain is the variety most of us recognize. Plantago lanceolata, or ribwort plantain is also plentiful, and has skinnier leaves. Both are similarly medicinal.
Plantain is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, styptic, demulcent, and diuretic.
