Broadleaf plantain, Plantago major, has been used for centuries for food and medicine. Briefly here are some of the medicinal benefits:
speeds wound healing due to antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
great as a poultice for bee or other insect stings (needs to be crushed or chewed)
a salve from this plant can help soothe and heal minor cuts, scrapes, and rashes
works to alleviate rash and inflammation from poison ivy (and often grows nearby that vile weed-isn't God good?!)
anti-inflammatory properties help with arthritis and gout
loosens phlegm and alleviates coughs
mild laxative and diuretic properties
antioxidant properties that help reduce the risk of chronic diseases
great for oral health due to the antimicrobial properties can be used as a mouthwash or poultice
For food, you can dehydrate and crush the leaves to make a nutritive mix or grind them to make a nutritive powder.
Dear Reader, I keep plantain tincture on hand to use for poison ivy rashes. What native plants do you use for food or medicine?
