A small, undistinguished perennial, 40 cm (16 in) high, it has a basal rosette of ovate leaves and cylindrical spikes of inconspicuous brownish-green flowers.
History and traditions
The Saxons called it “way broad”, because it was so often found by the wayside. And the story goes that this plant was once a beautiful young girl, who was changed into plantain for refusing to leave the roadway where she expected her lover to appear. As a medicinal herb it was highly rated by Pliny, who attributed to it the ability to fuse together pieces of flesh cooking in a pot, and to cure the madness of dogs or their bites. It was often recommended as an antidote to poison and in the US it was held to be a remedy for rattle-snake bite by native tribes.
Growth
Said to prefer moist soil, but tolerates any conditions in sun or shade. Self-seeds freely. Parts used Leaves fresh or dried.
Uses
Medicinal
Plantain was thought to promote healing and to have antibacterial properties. Mainly used as a poultice or in ointments to be applied externally to wounds, sores, ulcers, bites and stings.
