Plantago asiatica L., commonly known as Plantain in English and variously referred to as Che Qian Cao, Ping Che Qian, or Fo Yi in Chinese traditional medicine, is a perennial herb with a wide distribution across temperate and tropical regions globally. It thrives in diverse ecological settings, such as fields, roadsides, grasslands, and moist sandy soils, being particularly prevalent throughout much of China.
The plant exhibits distinct morphological characteristics, featuring long-elliptical or lanceolate leaves with parallel and dense veins, and it typically grows low to the ground. The inflorescence consists of a spike-like raceme that emerges from the top of the stem, containing numerous seeds within its capsules.
In terms of medicinal value, Plantago asiatica holds significant pharmacological activity and has a rich history of application in traditional Chinese medicine. According to TCM principles, it is characterized as sweet and cold in nature, affecting the Liver, Kidney, Lung, and Small Intestine meridians. Its primary functions include:
1. Clearing Heat and Promoting Urination: Used for treating symptoms like difficulty urinating, painful or obstructed urination, and aids in improving urinary system function.
2. Stopping Diarrhea and Dysentery: Effective for diarrhea induced by damp-heat conditions and general intestinal discomfort.
3. Cooling the Blood and Detoxifying: Beneficial for alleviating redness and inflammation of the eyes, phlegm-heat cough, hemoptysis, and epistaxis; also used externally for applying to abscesses and inflammatory skin conditions.
4. Resolving Phlegm and Suppressing Cough: Its decoction possesses expectorant properties and can help relieve cough associated with bronchitis or bronchiolitis.
Modern pharmacological research has substantiated its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, cough suppressant, and bronchodilator effects, making it a valuable component in the treatment of related diseases in traditional and integrative medical practices. In practical applications, the entire dried herb is usually administered internally at a dosage ranging from 9 to 30 grams, while fresh material may be used in larger quantities, up to 30 to 60 grams. For external use, an appropriate amount can be crushed and applied to affected areas as needed.