Plantago
Plantago
Plantago (pronunciation: /plænˈteɪɡoʊ/), commonly known as plantains, is a genus of about 200 species of small, inconspicuous plants in the family Plantaginaceae. The name is derived from the Latin planta (footprint) and ago (resembling), referring to the plant's low-lying growth habit.
Etymology
The genus name Plantago is derived from the Latin planta (footprint) and ago (resembling), referring to the plant's low-lying growth habit. The common name "plantain" is not related to the tropical fruit of the same name (banana family), but comes from the Old French plantain which is derived from the Latin planta (sole of the foot), due to its broad, flat leaves that grow close to the ground.
Description
Species of Plantago are perennial herbs with a cosmopolitan distribution. They are characterized by their rosette of basal leaves and a spike of small, wind-pollinated flowers. The leaves are simple, entire to sinuate, and exude a mucilaginous juice when crushed. The flowers are small, greenish, with four petals and four sepals. The fruit is a small capsule containing numerous seeds.
Medicinal Uses
Plantago species have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The leaves of Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata are used in herbal medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound-healing properties. They are also used as a remedy for coughs and bronchitis due to their expectorant and demulcent properties.
Related Terms
- Plantaginaceae: The plantain family, to which Plantago belongs.
- Plantago major: A species of plantain, also known as greater plantain or broadleaf plantain.
- Plantago lanceolata: A species of plantain, also known as ribwort plantain or English plantain.
- Plantago ovata: A species of plantain, also known as desert Indianwheat or psyllium.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Plantago
- Wikipedia's article - Plantago
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