Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Plantain (most commonly referring to Plantago major or Plantago lanceolata) has a long history in traditional herbal medicine for supporting eye health, including the treatment of conjunctivitis (also known as "pink eye"). Traditional European and Asian herbalists have used plantain leaf preparations—often as infusions, poultices, or eyewashes—to soothe irritated eyes and reduce inflammation. The rationale for its use is primarily based on its reported anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing mucilaginous properties, which may help alleviate conjunctival irritation.

Although there are some laboratory studies indicating that plantain extracts possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity, there are no robust clinical trials or scientific studies directly evaluating its effectiveness in treating conjunctivitis in humans. Most references to its use for this condition are found in ethnobotanical or herbal texts, not in scientific literature. Therefore, while the practice is well-rooted in tradition, scientific validation for the use of plantain specifically for conjunctivitis is minimal.

In summary, the use of plantain to treat conjunctivitis is primarily supported by traditional use, with a modest level of in vitro scientific evidence for relevant bioactivities, but without direct clinical support.

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