Plantain, Tea Cut

Plantain is the herb hiding in plain sight. Not the banana — the low-growing, broad-leafed plant that pushes up through sidewalk cracks and lawn edges across the entire Northern Hemisphere. It is one of the most widespread medicinal plants on earth, and one of the most underappreciated. Native Americans called it "white man's footprint" because it followed European settlers everywhere they went — and used it just as readily for its remarkable wound-healing and respiratory properties.

Our plantain is certified organic, tea cut, and harvested at peak potency. Mild, slightly earthy, and gently astringent — with a clean, green quality that blends seamlessly into teas and preparations. Plantago major, the broadleaf variety — the most widely used and well-studied of the plantain species.

Traditionally Used to Support

• Respiratory support — one of the most traditional European herbs for respiratory wellness; used for centuries to soothe irritated mucous membranes, support healthy expectoration, and ease dry, irritated coughs
• Wound healing & skin support (topical) — plantain's most famous traditional use; the fresh or dried leaf has been used as a poultice for insect stings, minor cuts, splinters, and skin irritation across virtually every folk medicine tradition in the Northern Hemisphere
• Digestive support — a gentle mucilaginous herb; traditionally used to soothe and coat irritated digestive tissue, support healthy gut lining integrity, and ease mild digestive discomfort
• Urinary tract support — traditionally used as a mild diuretic and urinary tract soother; used in European folk medicine to support healthy urinary function
• Allergy & sinus support — traditionally used to support healthy mucous membrane function and ease seasonal respiratory discomfort

How to Use

As a tea: Steep 1–2 teaspoons of tea cut plantain in 8–10 oz of just-boiled water for 10–15 minutes, covered. Mild and gently earthy — one of the more neutral-tasting herbs, which makes it an excellent blending base. Pairs well with mullein and thyme for respiratory support, or with marshmallow root and slippery elm for digestive soothing.

Topical poultice: Rehydrate dried plantain in warm water, apply directly to insect stings, minor cuts, or skin irritation, and cover with a clean cloth. One of the most time-honored first aid herbs in the apothecary.

Infused oil (topical): Cover dried plantain with a light carrier oil and infuse for 4–6 weeks. Strain and use in salves, balms, and skin preparations. Excellent in a first aid salve alongside calendula and comfrey.

Tincture: Macerate in high-proof alcohol for 4–6 weeks. A useful addition to respiratory and digestive formulas.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored, dried plantain leaf retains its potency for 1–2 years.

Certified organic. Tea cut. Small batch sourced.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.