Botanical Overview
Plantago asiatica (semen) is the seed of the Plantago asiatica plant, belonging to the Plantaginaceae family. Commonly known as Asian plantain seed or Plantago seed, it is native to East Asia including China, Japan, and Korea. The seed is primarily used medicinally.
Energetics
This herb is considered cooling and moistening, with a sweet and neutral taste. It has a descending directionality and a relaxing tonicity, acting primarily on the body’s fluids.
Primary Actions
- Demulcent
- Diuretic
- Laxative
- Anti-inflammatory
- Expectorant
Indications
Western
- Constipation
- Cough
- Urinary tract inflammation
- Skin inflammation
Syndromes
- Dry cough
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Urinary difficulty
- Dermatitis
TCM
- Constipation
- Dysuria
- Cough with sputum
Syndromes
- Heat in lungs
- Heat in liver
- Dry intestines
Ayurveda
- Constipation
- Cough
Syndromes
Unani
- Constipation
- Urinary disorders
Syndromes
Constituents & Mechanisms
The seeds contain mucilage, iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, phenylethanoids, and polysaccharides which contribute to its demulcent, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Seed decoction or infusion 3-9 g daily
- Powdered seed 1-3 g as laxative
- Extracts standardized for polysaccharides
Safety & Contraindications
Plantago asiatica seeds are generally considered safe when used appropriately. High doses may produce laxative effects. Use with caution during pregnancy due to lack of conclusive safety evidence. It may interact with diuretics or laxatives. Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Contraindicated in cases of intestinal obstruction.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable sources found to assign planetary or elemental rulers for this species.
Selected References
- Plantago asiatica L. Seeds – Plants For A Future, 2021
- Plantago asiatica Seed (Che Qian Zi) – Dan Bensky et al., Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, 2004
- Plantago asiatica L. – WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 3, 2007
- Plantago asiatica – Meng-He Li, Hong-Xiang Lou, Medicinal Plants of East and Southeast Asia, 1995