PLANTAIN AND ITS USES

What is Plantain?
Plantain is a perennial crop with about 250 species. Plantago lanceolata and Plantago major are among the most widely distributed, and they grow aggressively. They are pollinated by wind, enhancing its growth where there are no bees and few other plantain plants. Plantago major produces about 15,000 seeds per plant, and the seeds have been reported to remain viable in soil for up to 60 years. Plantago lanceolata produces about 10,000 seeds per plant and has a somewhat shorter seed viability. Plantain seeds survive passage through the gut of most animals, facilitating their distribution. Plantain seeds, are tiny, oval, boat-shaped, odorless and tasteless.

What is it used for?
Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses
Plantago lanceolata and Plantago major have been used in herbal remedies and sometimes were carried to colonies intentionally for that purpose. Psyllium seed has been found in malt refuse and wool imported to England. It has been commonly used in birdseed. Pulverized seeds are mixed with oil and applied topically to inflamed sites. Plantain extracted herbs are usually mixed with honey for sore throats treatment. The seeds and refined colloid are used in commercial bulk laxative preparations.

Miscellaneous uses
In human studies, plantain has been effective for treating chronic bronchitis, asthma, cough, and cold. Research shows that psyllium seed is useful as a bulk laxative. Reports on psyllium have concluded that it is helpful in treating various hyperlipidemias. A polyphenolic compound from P. major leaves was found to lower cholesterol activity. Base on research, there is use of plantain as an anticancer agent.

Side Effects of Plantain leaves
The side effect of taking to much plantain leaves are:
1.Anaphylaxis,
2.Chest congestion,
3.Sneezing.