Typically dismissed as a weed, wild plantain has a long history of use as a healing plant, often called “nature’s band-aid”.

There are 3 types of plantain that grow in North America that are easy to forage for. Pictured here is narrowleaf plantain.

Narrowleaf plantain has narrow, lance-like leaves that come to a point.

Broadleaf plantain, has broad, oval-shaped leaves.

Blackseed plantain, looks like a taller broadleaf plantain with purple where the leaf and stem meet.

Always make sure plantain — and any other plant you’re foraging — hasn’t been sprayed with pesticides.

Young leaves are ideal for eating, while older leaves can be too difficult to chew. The leaves have an earthy, slightly bitter flavor that's great in soups or stews.

Plantain can also be used medicinally.  Because it has antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, & astringent properties, it can be used for a range of ailments.

A plantain poultice on a bug bite can be held in place by a plantain leaf that is taped onto the skin.

Plantain leaves are also the perfect addition to homemade herbal salves.