White Man's Footprint

     The plantain weed is found in practically every crevice, yard and field around the world. It is native to Europe and central Asia  but is one of the most abundant and accessible plants on the planet.  It grows well in compacted or disturbed soils, especially along roadsides.  It was introduced to the New World inadvertently, the seeds carried on the shoes of the Puritan colonizers, hence the nickname given it by Native Americans "White Man's Footprint."



     While it is classified as a weed it is also a valuable medicinal plant containing many bioactive compounds.  The leaves are edible as salad greens when young and tender and the older, tougher leaves can be cooked in stews.  High in calcium the leaves rival carrots for Vitamin A content.  The seeds can be ground into flour.

     Extract from the plantain has wound healing qualities and is an effective anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant and antibiotic.  A poultice made from the leaves can be applied to wounds, sores and stings to promote healing.  Plantain tea is used to treat diarrhea and dysentery.  Fresh seeds and flower heads added to the tea is an effective laxative and soothes a sore throat.

     And I thought it was just a weed!!!