English Plantain
Plantago lanceolata
A plant (also called ribwort plantain) whose leaves are recognized in Europe as a traditional medicine for coughs, sore throats and minor skin inflammation.
What is English Plantain?
- Plant family
- Plantaginaceae, the plantain family
- Parts used
- The leaves
- Genus
- Plantago
- Species
- lanceolata
Also called
Ribwort Plantain, Ribwort, Narrowleaf Plantain, Plantain
Traditionally used for
- Skin inflammation
- Cough
- Sore throat
Traditionally described as
- Soothing (traditional)
Health topics
Where English Plantain appears in symptom search, and why. Being listed doesn't mean it's a proven treatment.
- Cough
Recognized in Europe as a traditional medicine for dry cough and cough with a cold.
- Skin Irritation, Rashes and Itching
Recognized in Europe in 2025 as a traditional medicine for minor skin inflammation.
Traditions that use it
European Folk Medicine
Recognized in Europe as a traditional herbal medicine for sore throats, dry and cold-related coughs, and minor skin inflammation.
Safety
Allergies
Don't use it if you're allergic to plantain leaf or to ribwort plantain pollen.[1]
Side effects
No side effects are known. See a doctor if you notice any.[1]
Pregnancy
Its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn't been established, so it isn't recommended at these times.[1]
How much to use
Plantain on the skin isn't recommended for children under 3. Taken by mouth, some forms aren't recommended under 3, 6 or 12, depending on the product. See a doctor if you get shortness of breath, fever or colored phlegm.[1]
What does the research say?
Traditional use
These are traditional uses, not proven treatments.
Based on long-standing use, the European Medicines Agency recognizes plantain leaf as a traditional herbal medicine for:
- Soothing irritation of the mouth and throat and the dry cough that goes with it
- Relieving cough with a cold
- Minor skin inflammation (used on the skin)
In short
Don't use it if you're allergic to plantain or its pollen.
Sources
- [1] European Union herbal monograph on Plantago lanceolata L., folium, Revision 1 (EMA/HMPC/887979/2022) — European Medicines Agency, Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC)Government health agency
This information is educational and traditional in nature, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.