Greater Plantain (Plantago major) as a tool for helping with Cough

In a randomised triple-blind phase III clinical trial, Plantago major extract was compared with chlorhexidine and sodium bicarbonate for chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis, supporting its demulcent and anti-inflammatory mucosal use.

Extraction of Plantago major seed mucilage was optimised and its physicochemical and rheological properties characterised, documenting the demulcent polysaccharide constituent responsible for the herb's soothing and bulk-laxative actions.

This narrative review of Plantago major covers its traditional Persian and modern phytotherapeutic uses for constipation, cough and wounds, alongside its botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicity.

Hydroalcoholic Plantago major extract relaxed rat tracheal smooth muscle through mechanisms involving beta-adrenergic and muscarinic receptors, supporting the traditional expectorant and antitussive use of greater plantain.