Herb latin name: Plantago amplexicaulis


Family: Plantaginaceae (Plantain Family)



Medicinal use of Plantago amplexicaulis:

The dried seeds are demulcent, febrifuge, ophthalmic and pectoral. They are used in the treatment of intestinal complaints and as a demulcent in cases of dysentery. Plantain seeds contain up to 30% mucilage which swells up in the gut, acting as a bulk laxative and soothing irritated membranes. Sometimes the seed husks are used without the seeds. The leaves are astringent. They are said to be useful in the treatment of intermittent fevers and pulmonary affections. An infusion is applied to the eyes in the treatment of ophthalmia.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Annual


Height:
10 cm
(4 inches)

Habitat of the herb:

Dry places in S. Spain, S. Italy and the Aegean.

Edible parts of Plantago amplexicaulis:

Young leaves - raw or cooked.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in early summer A sowing can be made outdoors in situ in mid to late spring if you have enough seeds.

Cultivation of Plantago amplexicaulis:

Dry places in S. Spain, S. Italy and the Aegean.

Known hazards of Plantago amplexicaulis:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.