Flashermac Posted April 29, 2014 Report Share Posted April 29, 2014 You’ve stepped on it, ignored it, and tried to eradicate it from your lawn. However, this innocuous little weed is one of the most useful medicines on the planet, just begging to be harvested. There are two major types of plantain in BC, Canada: Lance and Broadleaf. Generally, all 200-plus varieties of plantain yield the same results. It grows especially well in poor, rocky soil (such as driveways) and is often seen alongside dandelion. More often than not, you will see plantain growing in gravel pits and construction sites as nature seeks to regenerate the soil. Introduced to North America in the 1600s, it was once called “White Man’s Foot†by the Native Americans who witnessed that where the Europeans tread and disrupted the soil, plantain sprung up. Plantain has often been the go-to remedy for hikers plagued by mosquitos. Because it draws toxins from the body with its astringent nature, plantain may be crushed (or chewed) and placed as a poultice directly over the site of bee stings, bug bites, acne, slivers, glass splinters, or rashes. Bandage the area and allow the plantain to work its magic for 4-12 hours. Plantain may also be used to create a balm for emergency kits, or an infusion used as a skin or general wash. It is also a notable, soothing remedy for hemorrhoids. Plantain is renowned for its healing effect on the digestive system. This is especially useful for anyone who has been damaged by antibiotics, anti-inflammatory or pain medications, food allergies, or Celiac disease. Both leaves and seeds specifically target the digestive system for healing. The leaves may be steeped as tea, added to soups, or dried with a sauce similar to kale chips. The seeds – a type of psyllium – can be ground or soaked for bulk mucilage or absorbable fibre, which, consumed before meals, may help with weight loss. Because plantain is a gentle expectorant and high in silica, an infusion can be helpful for lung problems, coughs, and colds. Plantain is almost a panacea for the human body, treating everything from all menstrual difficulties, all digestive issues, to nearly all skin complaints, and even arthritis. Add to salads, chew to ease thirst, or enjoy in stir fries. This versatile wild vegetable will keep you in good health for years to come! http://higherperspective.com/2014/01/little-weed-one-useful-medicines-planet.html Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Flashermac Posted April 29, 2014 Author Report Share Posted April 29, 2014 I remember my Austrian great grandmother picking it in the fields to use as spinach. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TheCorinthian Posted April 29, 2014 Report Share Posted April 29, 2014 You left out this gem in the quote: About The AuthorJess Smith is a healer and raw wildcrafter living in the Fraser Valley, BC Canada A what.....? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Flashermac Posted April 29, 2014 Author Report Share Posted April 29, 2014 I left it out because I don't know what that is either. I googled and Jess Smith seems to be the only one there is. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Coss Posted April 29, 2014 Report Share Posted April 29, 2014 There's a reason he/she's the only one. But plantain is commonly known as a good'un. Another my family swears by, coming down through the generations is 'Russian Comfry' Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TheCorinthian Posted April 29, 2014 Report Share Posted April 29, 2014 I left it out because I don't know what that is either. I googled and Jess Smith seems to be the only one there is. Well, it's pretty important since it totally shoots down any credibility she has. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The_Munchmaster Posted April 29, 2014 Report Share Posted April 29, 2014 As a kid I recall using docken (not sure about the spelling) leaves to kill the pain of nettle stings. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dexi Posted April 29, 2014 Report Share Posted April 29, 2014 Sounds like a good cure-all and panacea,like Cream Tonaf .....I wonder if it also cures baldness Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TheCorinthian Posted April 29, 2014 Report Share Posted April 29, 2014 Sounds like a good cure-all and panacea,like Cream Tonaf .....I wonder if it also cures baldness Cav would like it then. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cavanami Posted April 30, 2014 Report Share Posted April 30, 2014 Dry it, roll it, smoke it Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now