Plantago major
Plantago major
Plantago major (pronunciation: /plænˈteɪɡoʊ ˈmeɪdʒər/), commonly known as greater plantain, is a species of flowering plant in the plantain family Plantaginaceae. The plant is native to most of Europe and northern and central Asia, but has widely naturalized elsewhere in the world.
Etymology
The genus name Plantago is derived from the Latin planta (footprint) and ago (resembling), referring to the plant's rosette of basal leaves that appears to be a footprint. The species name major means 'larger' in Latin, referring to the plant's size compared to other species in the genus.
Description
Plantago major is a perennial herb that grows from a short taproot, and produces a rosette of leaves that are oval and broad. The flowers are small, greenish-brown with purple stamens, and are produced in a dense spike on a stem that rises above the leaves.
Medical Uses
In traditional medicine, Plantago major has been used for wound healing, as a pain reliever, and for the treatment of coughs and colds. The leaves contain a number of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, and mucilage, which have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
Related Terms
- Plantaginaceae: The plantain family, a large family of flowering plants of which Plantago major is a member.
- Flavonoids: A diverse group of plant chemicals that are thought to provide many of the health benefits associated with diets rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Tannins: A type of polyphenol found in a variety of plants, including Plantago major, that has astringent properties.
- Mucilage: A thick, gluey substance produced by nearly all plants and some microorganisms. It plays a role in the storage of water and food, seed germination, and thickening membranes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Plantago major
- Wikipedia's article - Plantago major
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