The common garden weed called plantain has edible leaves and seeds. It may offer health benefits, such as improved digestion, enhanced wound healing, and lower inflammation.

The broadleaf plantain has many medicinal properties. It’s antibacterial, acts as an astringent (tones and tightens), and acts as a diuretic (the seeds have laxative properties). It also helps to stop bleeding, reduce fever, soothes skin ailments, and helps neutralize poisoning.

Apart from its antimicrobial and antioxidant attributes, broadleaf plantain has been documented to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. It also has been shown to boost the immune system and to help treat ulcers, diarrhea and fatigue.

Great plantain (Plantago major) is a plant with broad leaves native to Europe and Asia. It now grows worldwide as a weed. It's also used as medicine. Great plantain contains chemicals that might help decrease pain and swelling, decrease mucous, and open airways. It might also help kill bacteria and fungi.