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Family
Plantaginaceae
Description
Annual herbaceous plant. Leaves are lance-shaped with three ribs. Flowers are small and white surrounding a brown, cylindrical head on a grooved stalk. Flowers are present April through November.
Location
Found in waste places and disturbed soil. Ranges throughout North America.
Uses and Parts Used
Leaves
Leaf tea used to treat cough, diarrhea, dysentery, and hematuria. Leaves have bronchodilation properties and can be used for bronchitis and throat colds. Leaf poultice used for blisters, sores, ulcers, swelling, insect stings, earaches, and eye ailments.
Seeds
Seeds, like any plantain, may be ingested to reduce cholesterol levels.
Notes
Rarely, contact may cause dermatitis. Related species Plantago ovata clinically proven to reduce blood pressure. Seeds also used commercially in laxatives.
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