Plantain vs Calliandra calothyrsus

Plantain (not the banana relative) is a ubiquitous "weed" found on every continent, used medicinally across virtually all traditional medicine systems. It is one of the most accessible healing plants, valued for its wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and respiratory properties. Shakespeare and Anglo-Saxon herbalists documented its medicinal virtues.

Central American legume tree introduced to Africa and Asia; bark used for wounds and respiratory conditions.

Aucubin, Allantoin, Mucilage, Tannins, Baicalein

tannins, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids

Wound healing, Insect bite treatment, Cough remedy, Digestive aid, Blood purifier

wound healing, cough, skin conditions

Wound care and insect bites, Cough and bronchitis, Urinary tract infections, Skin inflammation, Oral health

wound healing, expectorant, anti-inflammatory

3-5g dried leaf as tea 3 times daily, or fresh leaf poultice as needed

Bark decoction 5-10g 2x/day; topical poultice

Allergy to Plantaginaceae family

pregnancy

Allergic reactions (rare), GI upset at high doses

GI upset