In abundance in urban parks and gardens – Stoke Village included – plantain weed is often regarded as a garden pest; but did you know that it is not only edible but also extremely useful for medicinal purposes? In fact, plantain weed contains plant compounds that may reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and promote wound healing. They are particularly useful for reducing pain caused by nettle stings and insect bites. If you ever get a sting or bite, simply pick a plantain leaf (green, large, oval-shaped), ideally rinse it with water, then chew it up for a few minutes. Human saliva is particularly well-suited to breaking down certain chemical compounds in the plant that make it more medicinally beneficial. Then place the “salve” on your nettle sting. Pain should start to subside.
Young plantain leaves (green, large, oval shaped leaves) can also be eaten raw or cooked. For topical use, you can also try drying the leaves and infusing them into your choice of oil, such as coconut, sunflower, olive, or almond oil. Dried plantain weed can also be added to natural skin care products, including lip balms and lotions.