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