Ribwort 1:2 (OptimalRx)

Plantago lanceolata. Ribwort, aka Narrow-leaved Plantain, can be used as first aid to heal many types of wounds and to take the swelling and sting out of a variety of different insect bites. It can be used internally for dry coughs, bronchitis, sinusitis and mucus membrane inflammations including diarrhoea and peptic ulcers. It can also be added to remedies for seasonal allergies such as hay fever. Ribwort is valued for its broadly therapeutic effects on the urinary system and is useful in cases of cystitis, prostate inflammation or bladder infections. Traditional Use Plantago is from the Latin planta, the sole of the foot, because it grows on paths and lanceolata refers to the lance shaped leaves. It has long been considered by herbalists to be a useful remedy for coughs, wounds, inflamed skin or dermatitis, and insect bites. Bruised or crushed leaves have been applied topically to treat insect bites and stings, eczema and small wounds or cuts. It was considered to be a gentle, soothing expectorant with a mild astringent effect said to help remedy haemorrhoids or bladder infections with small amounts of blood in the urine. Traditionally regarded as a mucilage drug. Actions Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, expectorant, anticatarrhal, antibacterial, antimicrobial, astringent, demulcent, soothing diuretic Indications • Upper respiratory catarrh, particularly in children, including chronic mucous membrane discharge, asthma, acute and chronic bronchitis, coughs of all sorts, pertussis (whooping cough), rhinitis, sinusitis, nasal and middle ear catarrhal conditions • Inflammation of the mouth and throat • Dysentery and diarrhoea, gastric and peptic ulcer, colitis, haemorrhoids • Incontinence in children, painful urination, cystitis • Externally for wounds and inflammation of the skin, as a form of first aid for insect bites and bruises Energetics Cooling, moistening Use in Pregnancy Not advised as there is insufficient evidence for safe administration. Contraindications & Cautions None known. Drug Interactions None known. Dietary Information Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free Substitutes Ivy Leaf, Liquorice, Mullein, Thyme, Stone Root, Adhatoda, Aniseed, Elecampane, Grindelia, Heartsease, Hyssop