Other names for Buckhorn Plantain

buckhorn
english plantain leaf extract
english plantain leaf extract, freeze-dried
english plantain leaf extract, hydroalcoholic

Synopsis of Buckhorn Plantain

History

Buckhorn Plantain (Plantago lanceolata), also known as ribwort plantain or narrowleaf plantain, has a long-standing reputation in traditional medicine across Europe, Asia, and North America. Historical records show its use dating back centuries for a variety of remedies, owing to its abundance and versatility. Folk healers valued buckhorn plantain for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Its leaves were commonly crushed and applied as a poultice to wounds, cuts, and insect bites to promote healing and reduce swelling. In medieval Europe, it was a go-to remedy for coughs, sore throats, and respiratory complaints, often prepared as a tea or syrup to ease irritation and support lung health.

Traditional herbalists also recognized buckhorn plantain’s role as a gentle digestive aid, using infusions to soothe minor gastrointestinal upsets. The plant is rich in bioactive compounds such as aucubin, allantoin, and mucilage, which contribute to its ability to calm mucous membranes and support tissue repair. Because of its mild, synergistic effects, buckhorn plantain is often included in herbal combinations with other botanicals like mullein, licorice root, and elderflower to enhance respiratory and immune support.

Today, buckhorn plantain continues to be a valued ingredient in nutritional and herbal formulations, celebrated for its gentle yet effective contribution to wellness. Its time-tested uses and compatibility with other herbs underscore its enduring place in both modern and traditional herbalism.

Traditional and scientific validation

Buckhorn Plantain (Plantago lanceolata), also known as ribwort plantain, is a perennial herb historically recognized for its medicinal properties. Its use dates back to traditional European and Asian medicine, where it was valued for its soothing effects on respiratory and digestive ailments. Traditionally, Buckhorn Plantain leaves were applied to wounds, used as expectorants, and brewed as teas to relieve coughs and sore throats.

Modern scientific investigations have begun to validate some of these traditional uses. The plant contains bioactive compounds such as aucubin, flavonoids, and iridoid glycosides, which are associated with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. Several in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated these properties, suggesting potential benefits for immune support and tissue healing. For example, research published in Phytotherapy Research has highlighted its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects, and some laboratory studies report antimicrobial activity against common pathogens.

Clinical evidence in humans, while promising, remains limited. A few small-scale studies have investigated Buckhorn Plantain extracts for upper respiratory symptoms and found mild improvements in cough severity and duration. However, these trials are often preliminary and call for larger, controlled studies to confirm efficacy and safety for regular supplementation. Overall, while Buckhorn Plantain’s traditional use is well-established and initial scientific findings are encouraging, more rigorous clinical research is needed to fully substantiate its role in nutritional products. Nevertheless, its rich phytochemical profile and historical significance make it a valuable botanical ingredient in contemporary wellness formulations.

Buckhorn Plantain is used for these health conditions

Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Abrasions (Traditional)
Abscesses (Traditional)
Afterbirth Pain (Traditional)
Allergies (respiratory) (Traditional)
Anal Fistula or Fissure (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Athlete's Foot (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Blisters (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Bruises (prevention) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Canker Sores (Traditional)
Carbuncles (Traditional)
Chest Pain (Traditional)
Chills (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Traditional)
Colds (decongestant) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Traditional)
Colds (with fever) (Traditional)
Colic (adults) (Traditional)
Colic (children) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Dermatitis (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Dyspepsia (Traditional)

Buckhorn Plantain is used to support these body systems

Bladder (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Gums (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Sinuses (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)

Products containing Buckhorn Plantain

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.