Evidence supporting the use of: Common Plantain
For the health condition: Blisters
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Common Plantain (Plantago major) has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly as a topical remedy for skin ailments such as blisters, cuts, and minor wounds. In European and North American folk medicine, fresh plantain leaves were often crushed or chewed and then applied directly to the skin to soothe irritation and promote healing. The rationale for this use comes from the plant's mucilaginous texture, which provides a moist covering for wounds, and the presence of bioactive compounds such as allantoin, aucubin, and various flavonoids that are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
While there are some laboratory studies indicating that Plantain extracts have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects in vitro and in animal models, there is limited direct scientific evidence specifically supporting its effectiveness for blisters in humans. Most support comes from traditional practices and anecdotal reports rather than controlled clinical trials. As a result, while Common Plantain remains a popular folk remedy for blisters and minor skin injuries, its use for this condition is best described as grounded in tradition, with moderate (but not robust) supporting evidence.
Other health conditions supported by Common Plantain
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Abscesses
Acid Indigestion
Afterbirth Pain
Allergies (respiratory)
Asthma
Bites and Stings
Bleeding (external)
Blisters
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
Cuts
Dandruff
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dyspepsia
Ear Infection or Earache
Eczema
Edema
Emphysema
Eye Infections
Eyes (red or itching)
Fever
Fungal Infections
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Glands (swollen lymph)
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Headache (tension)
Hemorrhoids
Herpes
Hypertension