What is Plantago?

One of the plant extracts in all our soaps is Plantago, but what is Plantago?

Botanically known as Plantago lanceolate or Plantago major, it is a plant we can often see during our walks outside. You needn’t venture far to find it, it grows in meadows, fields, parks, and even on the sides of pathways.

It can be recognised by long vertical ribs on its leaves, giving it the name ribwort. 

Plantago has a rich documented history in herbal use dating as far back as the 15th century when people used Plantago compresses on skin injuries. Traditionally it is considered a vulnerary plant - thought to support the skin in regeneration and aid healing. Plantago is used by herbalists to this day as it is reported to help sooth rashes and irritations thanks to its calming effect on the skin. 

(Photo is it shown with snake and scorpion to indicate plant was thought to be an antidote for their bites and stings in the book Herbarium published in Rome. ca. 1483-ca. 1484. https://www.loc.gov/resource/cph.3b41348/ )