Plantain is an incredible herb that you can find almost anywhere, often mistaken for a weed. Known for its healing properties, it’s used in various cultures as a “healing herb.” Instead of tossing it in the compost, you can harvest its leaves to make a healing salve for your first aid kit.

Identifying Plantain
There are two common types of plantain: Plantago major (broadleaf) and Plantago lanceolata (narrowleaf). In my yard, I mostly find the narrowleaf variety, which grows in patches in my garden. Both types have leaves that surround the flowers and stem at the base, resembling petals.

When harvesting plantain, ensure you’re picking them from areas free of chemicals.

Supplies Needed:
– A handful of washed and dried Plantain leaves
– 4 oz Coconut Oil
– ½ oz Beeswax (pellets or shaved)
– 8 oz Heatproof jar
– Saucepan

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Plantain Leaves:
Tear the plantain leaves into smaller pieces and fill the jar halfway, packing them tightly.

2. Add Coconut Oil:
Pour the coconut oil over the leaves. Place the jar in a saucepan filled halfway with water. Set the heat to a low simmer and let it infuse for about two hours.

3. Strain the Mixture:
After the oil has infused, strain out the plantain leaves. The oil should have a light green color.

4. Add Beeswax:
Add the beeswax to the infused oil and put it back in the saucepan until the beeswax melts. This will help keep the salve firm at room temperature.

5. Pour and Cool:
Pour the mixture into tins or jars. My batch made about 6 oz. Let the salve cool, and it will turn opaque.

Usage:
Add this salve to your first aid kit. It’s great for minor cuts and burns, keeping the skin moist and promoting healing. It also works wonders on chapped hands, sunburned skin, sore paws on pets, bee and wasp stings, mosquito bites, poison ivy, eczema, psoriasis, and diaper rash.