Present almost everywhere in the Italian countryside, this plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Ribwort plantain, whose scientific name is Plantago major, is a very useful plant with a wealth of benefits for our health: we list some of them below.
Rich in vitamins A and C as well as calcium, Native Americans used plantain to relieve insect bites, blocking the venom and relieving rashes. Because of its antibacterial properties, plantain can also be used as a natural mouthwash.
In addition to being antimicrobial and antibacterial, plantain has antitoxic and anti-inflammatory properties, and can relieve sunburn, itching, wounds and pain. Some studies are verifying its ability to regulate blood sugar.
Benefits of plantain
Lowers cholesterol;
Helps in the treatment of diabetes;
Relieves symptoms of hemorrhoids;
is helpful in cases of irritable bowel syndrome;
soothes the intestines in cases of constipation or diarrhea;
relieves kidney and gallbladder problems;
relieves indigestion and ulcers.
Plantain is also good for relieving external inflammation caused by insect bites, rashes, eczema, psoriasis, sunburn, cuts, and varicose veins.
It is possible to use plantain by applying its leaves directly to the skin to relieve skin problems. Alternatively, an infusion of plantain is good for relieving pain and treating digestive problems.
Plantain is available in herbal stores in the form of essential oil, tincture and infusion.
Plantain leaves have astringent properties, and can be used to relieve inflammation such as hemorrhoids and respiratory diseases. Fresh leaves contain mucilatannin, a compound that can speed up the healing process from wounds and stop bleeding.