Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Narrow-leaved plantain (Plantago lanceolata)

(Pic from Wikipedia commons)

Narrow-leaved plantain leaves are quite edible, but I haven't tried them. I don't fancy those long stringy bits in the bigger older leaves. Perhaps the younger leaves would be okay, especially cooked.

I'm more interested in this plant's medicinal uses. It has many, but is best known for soothing stings, bites and other skin complaints. It also makes a good haemorrhoid treatment. (No more embarrassing trips to the chemist!)

I have some narrow-leaved plantain macerating in a jar of coconut oil at the moment, and I'm hoping the result will be a nice soothing oil for varied complaints.

This plant's close relative, broad-leaved plantain, has similar properties, and also grows around Wellington, but not in such great quantity. (Not that I've seen anyway.)

Narrow-leaved plantain links:
Plants for a Future database
Google Images

2 comments:

Ruth said...

And this plant!! I often pull it out just thinking it's some pesky weed. Gee, this blog is great!

Ina said...

So how is that "infusion" working with the coconut? Very interesting blog!!! Gonna try a few of your recomendations!