Description
The plantain weed (not the banana plantain) is very common and it has two varieties. In the broad leaf plantain, the leaves are over 1 inch across and they grow close to the ground. The flowers grows on a stalk that rises from the middle of the leaves. In the narrow leaf plantain, the sword-like leaves are about 1 inch wide and can grow up to 6 inches long. They are also covered with hairs. The leaves form a cluster and the flowers are tiny.
Where To Find
Plantains grow worldwide. They can be found in moist areas, lawns, along roads, marshes and bogs.
What And How To Eat
Edible parts are the leaves and young seed pods. You can eat young leaves raw but you have to steam/boil older leaves. Seed pods can be eaten raw or roasted.
Medicinal Use
The leaves of common plantain are effective in staunching blood flow to stop excessive bleeding. An infusion of the leaves is used to treat peptic ulcers, gastritis, hemorrhoids, sinusitis, catarrh and hay fever. Externally, it is used for cuts, stings and inflammations. The root is used to treat rattlesnake bites and the seeds are used against parasitic worms.