Plantain
By Charlotte Branca
Plantain also known by its Latin name plantago major is considered by most to be a weed, which grows just about everywhere. Plantain is so prevalent many often overlook it as an unimportant herb, especially as more exotic herbs enter the market place and are being talked about. I however, think that plantain is one of the most important herbs known to man. The Native Americans call this plant White Man’s Foot, for wherever the white man went, this plant seemed to follow in his footsteps. When something is this anxious to be known it usually means we should pay attention to it. Plantain is most known medicinally for its topical applications. It is used for drawing out poisons through the skin as well as infections from a wound. The whole plant is used as a poultice for snakebites and insect stings such as mosquito and bee stings. A liniment made with the juice and rubbed into the skin can relieve headaches, gout and other skin inflammations such as eczema and psoriasis. Not only is plantain wonderful for external complaints, but is a very powerful healer when use internally as well. It is a fabulous blood purifier. It assists in hydrating the cells of the body when used as a tea and can also reduce a fever. It also has germ killing properties making it useful for kidney and bladder infections. Proteolytic enzymes found in the leaves help to relieve mild inflammation in the stomach and the intestinal tract. Additional uses include using the fresh juice to treat diabetes, dysentery, earache, ear inflammation, pains of the spleen, tobacco habit, toothache, delayed urination and worms.
Most people will laugh at intentionally cultivating plantain, but I like to keep a patch of plantain in my garden always ready for when I need it. Plantain multiplies easily from seed. It will also spread by root as well. To acquire seeds simply locate a plant in another area of the yard. Wait until the flower develops into seeds. Gather these seeds and sprinkle them where you would like them to grow, covering lightly and watering. Soon you will have a patch of plantain. It is not picky about soil conditions and will grow just about anywhere. Water occasionally so soil doesn’t become to dry, but it really isn’t picky about this either, the plant will just grow a little smaller in size when less water is available.
Magically use the dried leaves and roots of plantain in a healing bath or healing ritual. Plantain enhances the power of any working, increasing the overall magic. A few pinches can also be placed in the flame of a candle or thrown to the East wind in all healing wishes. Plantain is also used for protection and to repel snakes of all kinds, not just those that slither on the ground.
Astrologically plantain is ruled by the planet Mars and the sun sign Aries making this a very powerful plant indeed. There is nothing shy about this combination. It likes to get things done quickly without too much fuss. The fiery impact these two influences have on plantain give it the ability to calm any kind of inflammation and irritation whether it is physical or emotional. Plantain can help one find and clear out inner sources of irritation, which are deep seated within the system and hard to loosen. Congested thoughts are cleared and greater clarity is soon to follow. As these irritations and thoughts are cleared so are life’s burdens leaving us free to manifest our greatest desires.
Plantain Ointment
Pick plantain leaves when they are vibrant and green. Chop them coarsely and pack loosely into a clean, very dry jar. Add olive oil, dislodge air bubbles with a knife or chopstick until the jar is filled to the very top. Label and cover with cheese cloth so moisture can evaporate. Let sit out of direct sunlight.
After six weeks, Save the oil by straining it into a jar and squeezing out what remains in the plant material. Discard the herb. Grate one tablespoon of beeswax for every ounce of oil. Stirring constantly, heat the oil and beeswax until the wax melts, usually within a minute. Pour the liquid into small, wide-mouthed jars and cool.
Use this ointment lavishly for diaper rash, insect bites, all itches, and minor wounds. It heals, stops itching, checks bleeding, and eases pain.
Copyright © Thyme For Health 2004
