Evidence supporting the use of: Plantain
For the health condition: Dermatitis

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Synopsis

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

Plantain (Plantago major) has a long history of use in traditional medicine for treating various skin conditions, including dermatitis. In European folk medicine, plantain leaves have been applied topically to soothe skin irritations, inflammation, minor wounds, and insect bites. The traditional use is based on the plant's purported anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. These benefits are attributed to active compounds such as aucubin (an iridoid glycoside), flavonoids, and tannins found in the leaves.

While there is a substantial body of anecdotal and historical evidence supporting plantain’s use for skin complaints, scientific studies specifically investigating its efficacy for dermatitis (including atopic or contact dermatitis) are limited. A few laboratory studies have demonstrated that extracts of Plantago major can exert anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects in vitro or in animal models, which may be relevant to dermatitis. However, high-quality human clinical trials are lacking.

In summary, the use of plantain for dermatitis is primarily justified by traditional herbal practice, with some preliminary scientific data suggesting a plausible mechanism of action. However, the overall strength of evidence is modest (rated 2/5), and more rigorous clinical research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety for this specific condition.

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