Holistic Healing - Foraging Plantain

Plantain - Probably one of the best wild herbs to forage for holistic healing and definitely one of our favourites. We always make sure to keep a supply for making ointments, balms and salves.

What is Plantain and why do we need it?

Plantain is one of the most common wild plants in the UK and therefore one of the easiest to forage. There are 2 types; Ribwort Plantain and common or Broadleaf Plantain. When it comes to holistic healing properties, both are considered to be simialr in attributes.

Not only is Plantain a great plant for holistic healing, it is also a great culinary herb too. The leaves can be a little bitter on their own, although they prove to be a great addion to soups, casseroles and sauces.

Plantain has soothing abilities for both internal and external ailments. Plantain is said to have anti-histamine, antifungal, antioxidant, analgesic and even mild antibiotic properties. The main characteristics are aiding the reduction of swelling and pain from bruising and wounds. Plantain is also fantastic at soothing stings and irritations, making it the best remedy for nettle stings. When used internally, Plantain can help to ease sore throats and coughs, including some digestive ailments.

Ribwort Plantain

Lanceolate (long, narrow) leaves grow in a rosette formation from the base of the plant and have deep viens running their entire length. The seed heads of Ribwort Plantain are typically smaller than the seed heads of Broadleaf Plantain

As with most plants, it is recommended to forage the leaves of Plantain whilst they are young. The seed heads are best collected anytime before flowering, although flavours will vary throughout their lifespan.

Broadleaf Plantain

Broadleaf plantain has smaller, oval shaped leaves compared to Ribwort Plantain, they grow in a rosette formation from the base of the plant and have deep viens running their entire length. The seed heads are long and stand proud of the plant.

Where and when TO find Plantain?

Both Broadleaf and Ribwort Plantain can be foraged all year 'round in most parts of the UK.

Plantain is most commonly found in disturbed and compacted soils, such as pathways, fields, parks, gardens and towns. It is quite likely that there will be Plantain to forage in your garden or around local naturalised footpaths.

Dont forget to check out our foraging safely guide. Just click the button below.

WAYS TO use Plantain...

There are so many ways to use this plant, from making soothing balms or salves, topical oinment for stings and bites to concoting teas, syrups and tinctures for internal ailments. Interestingly, the seeds can be dried and ground to use as flour, although it is highly recommended to only substitute upto half of the amount of your normal flour with the Plantain flour.

Plantain salve

For topical use on sores, stings and bites.

You will need.....

1oz Beeswax

2 cups of plantain, chopped and dried

1.5 cups of carrier oil (I use sweet almond but its really up to you)

3-4 drops of Tea tree essential oil (optional)

Salve tins or small jars of choice

In a clean jar with an airtight seal, cover the plantain with the carrier oil, apply the lid and leave to infuse in a cool, dark place for 6 weeks.

Once the oil has been infused, strain out and discard the plantain, reserving the oil.

Add the oil to a bowl above simmering water (double boiler) and add the beeswax.

Heat gently until the beeswax has melted and the oils are combined.

Remove from the heat and add the tea tree oil if using, stir well to combine.

Pour the salve into your prepared containers and leave to cool and set before applying the lid.

Plantain tincture

For digestive upset and for soothing coughs

You will need.....

2 cups of fresh plantain, chopped

Enough vodka or apple cider vinegar (acv) to cover.

Jars with tight seal

In a clean jar with an airtight seal, cover the plantain with the vodka or acv, apply the lid and leave to infuse in a cool, dark place for 6 weeks.

Once the vodka or acv has been infused, strain out and discard the plantain.

Pour the tincture into a clean glass container with a tight fitting seal.

The tincture should be dispersed into a glass of water and consumed as required. (Recommended 5-10 drops per glass)

Culinary uses

Young leaves can be added to salads, soups, casseroles and basically anything you would add other leafy greens to. You can make crisps from the leaves in the same way you would make kale crisps. The flower heads of the Ribwort Plantain are said to have a mushroom like flavour (although not everyone agrees) and can be used to flavour a stock.