English Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly as a remedy for minor skin infections, wounds, and irritations. Historical records from Europe and other regions indicate that the leaves of English Plantain were commonly applied as poultices or ointments to cuts, insect bites, and other minor skin problems. This use is rooted in traditional herbal practices, often cited in ethnobotanical literature and folk medicine.

The rationale for its use often centers on the plant's purported anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent properties, attributed to its content of bioactive compounds such as aucubin (an iridoid glycoside), flavonoids, and tannins. Some in vitro studies suggest that extracts of Plantago species possess mild antimicrobial activity, but clinical studies in humans are lacking. No robust randomized controlled trials have confirmed its efficacy for treating skin infections specifically.

Overall, while English Plantain is traditionally used for minor skin infections and related conditions, scientific evidence to support these uses is limited and largely preclinical. Therefore, the use is justified by tradition rather than strong scientific validation.