Botanical Overview
Plantago lanceolata L., commonly known as English plantain, ribwort plantain, or narrowleaf plantain, belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and now widespread in North America as an introduced species. The plant’s leaves and seeds are primarily used medicinally.
Common names include English plantain, ribgrass, ribwort plantain, and narrowleaf plantain.
Energetics
The energetics of Plantago lanceolata include a cooling and moistening nature, with bitter and sweet tastes. It has descending directionality, a relaxing tonicity, and primarily supports qi in traditional Western energetic understanding.
Primary Actions
- Demulcent
- Anti-inflammatory
- Expectorant
- Astringent
- Wound healing
- Antitussive
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Sore throat
- Mouth ulcers
- Wounds
- Inflammation
- Skin irritations
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
- Diarrhea
Syndromes
- Respiratory mucous membrane irritation
- Inflammatory conditions of the oral cavity and upper respiratory tract
- Mild diarrhea
- Wounds and skin inflammation
TCM
No specific traditional Chinese medicine indications recorded.
Ayurveda
No specific Ayurvedic indications recorded.
Unani
No specific Unani indications recorded.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Plantago lanceolata contains key phytochemical groups including aucubin, flavonoids, iridoid glycosides, mucilage, phenolic acids, and tannins, which contribute to its demulcent, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2–4 g dried leaf 2–3 times daily
- Tincture (1:5, 50% ethanol): 2–5 mL 1–3 times daily
- Topical: fresh leaf poultice or ointment for wounds and skin irritations
Safety & Contraindications
The plant is generally safe when used appropriately. Oral use is well tolerated; however, topical applications may rarely cause contact allergy. There is insufficient data on safety during pregnancy and lactation; thus, use is not recommended during these periods. Contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to Plantago species. Due to mucilage content, it may delay absorption of oral medications.
Astrological Correspondences
No firmly established planetary or elemental rulers documented in reputable sources.
Selected References
- Assessment report on Plantago lanceolata L., folium, European Medicines Agency, 2014
- Plantago lanceolata – Ribwort Plantain, Plants For A Future Database
- Plantain Species and Their Health Effects, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
- Plantago species: Traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology, Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, 2nd Edition