Plantago amplexicaulis
Family: Plantaginaceae
What it is like
Plantago amplexicaulis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.1
Where it is found
Dry places in S. Spain, S. Italy and the Aegean.
S. Europe to W. Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young leaves - raw or cooked.
Medicine
Rating: 2
The dried seeds are demulcent, febrifuge, ophthalmic and pectoral. They are used in the treatment of intestinal complaints and as a demulcent in cases of dysentery. Plantain seeds contain up to 30% mucilage which swells up in the gut, acting as a bulk laxative and soothing irritated membranes. Sometimes the seed husks are used without the seeds. The leaves are astringent. They are said to be useful in the treatment of intermittent fevers and pulmonary affections. An infusion is applied to the eyes in the treatment of ophthalmia.
Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.
Demulcent: Soothes, lubricates and softens irritated tissues, especially the mucous membranes.
Dysentery: Used in treating dysentery - an infection of the intestines that causes diarrhoea containing blood or mucus.
Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.
Laxative: Stimulates bowel movements in a fairly gentle manner.
Ophthalmic: Treats eye complaints.
Pectoral: Relieves respiratory diseases, a remedy for chest diseases.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Succeeds in any moderately fertile soil in a sunny position. This species is sold in local markets in India as a medicinal plant.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in early summer A sowing can be made outdoors in situ in mid to late spring if you have enough seeds.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist