Ingredient sheet: Broadleaf plantain
What is broadleaf plantain?
The broadleaf plantain, also called greater plantain or major plantain ( plantago major ), is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Plantaginaceae family of European origin.
Plantain can be used in food (in salads) or in herbal medicine.
What are the biological properties of broadleaf plantain?
Plantain is used in infusions, poultices, juices, tinctures, and powders.
The leaves and seeds of the plantain grain are reputed to possess several properties of interest:
- painkillers
- anti-inflammatories
- antioxidants
- depuratives
- immunomodulators
- antifungals
- anticancer drugs
- healing
The medicinal benefits of P. major are thought to be linked to various bioactive compounds, such as:
- flavonoids
- alkaloids
- terpenoids
- phenolic compounds
- iridoid glycosides
- fatty acids
- polysaccharides
- vitamins
Plantain is also said to be very effective in treating external wounds and promoting tissue healing.
In addition, approximately 60 secondary metabolites have been identified from plantain such as phenylethanoid glycosides, triterpenoids, polysaccharides, phenolic acids and other compounds such as alkaloids, caffeic acid derivatives, coumarins, fats and oils, mucilage, polysaccharides, sterols and volatile substances.
Plantain is said to have pulmonary effects: it can indeed inhibit the degranulation of mast cells and can therefore be used to treat asthma and allergic diseases.
What are the health claims of broadleaf plantain?
To date, there are no validated health claims for broadleaf plantain, however its traditional use is recognized by various health authorities such as the German Commission E.
What are the contraindications and side effects of broadleaf plantain?
There are no known contraindications to taking plantain. However, there may be cases of allergy or sensitivity.
Plantain intake is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice.
Excessive consumption may have laxative effects.
In the search
Wound healing is facilitated by extracts of Plantago Major L. leaves. Ex-vivo experiments confirm the findings of traditional medicine. (1)
The aqueous extract (72°C, 30 min) of dried P. major leaves administered orally showed anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities related to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in mice and rats. Anti-inflammatory activity in rats was demonstrated by the inhibition of carrageenan-induced paw edema.(2)