Ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata) belongs to the plantain family and often grows along roadsides, in fertile meadows or in parks. Whereas buckhorn used to be a vegetable substitute in times of need, the plant is now an important part of many natural remedies.
Recognize the buckhorn by its flowers
Plantain has lanceolate leaves that grow straight out of the ground. These are also often used as a natural medicine and feed for horses and rabbits. However, the plant is particularly easy to recognize in larger meadows by its towering flowers, which are characterized by their cylindrical, spike-like shape on a long stem. At the flowering time, this spike is surrounded by a basal rosette of small, whitish flowers.
Collect plantains when they are in bloom
The flowering period of buckhorn in this country extends from about May to September. In alpine locations, the flowering can start a little later, ribwort plantain has already been spotted at altitudes of up to about 1,750 meters above sea level. The edible plants are harvested primarily for the following purposes:
- remedies for cough
- Relief from insect bites
- as a herb in soups
- for preparing herbal tea
- as part of healthy salads
tips and tricks
The leaves of the buckhorn develop their greatest healing effect in spring. Therefore, the plant should be harvested as a natural remedy if possible before flowering.
WK